Will There Be a Variant of TChalla from the Multiverse in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever?

In Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, there is no variant character of TChalla from the multiverse. The film focuses on the legacy of TChalla following the passing of actor Chadwick Boseman and explores how the characters, particularly Shuri, deal with his absence.

The Legacy of TChalla in Wakanda Forever

Following the release of Black Panther, the death of Chadwick Boseman posed a significant challenge for the Multiversal continuity of the character. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever attempts to honor the legacy of TChalla without attempting to recast the role as the same character. This choice reflects a tribute to the original actor while providing a fresh narrative for the film.

Recasting TChalla: A Multiversal Opportunity?

There is no shortage of ways in which Marvel Studios could have recast TChalla, particularly in the realm of multiversal storytelling. It is true that variants of characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) can look remarkably similar to the original performers. From the various Loki variants in Loki to the different Peter Parker spins in Spider-Man: No Way Home, there have been numerous opportunities to recast the character.

However, the absence of a TChalla variant in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever suggests that Kevin Feige and Ryan Coogler, among others, have chosen to prioritize storytelling and continuity above the allure of a fresh face. This decision is rooted in the acknowledgment that TChalla’s legacy is irrevocably tied to Chadwick Boseman’s performance.

The Multiverse in the MCU: An Expanding Horizon

Much of the hype surrounding the idea of "opening the Multiverse" in the MCU has centered on the recent films like Loki, Spider-Man: No Way Home, and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. However, these films have taken independent paths, each accessing the multiverse through unique means. The TVA, The Darkhold, and America Chavez have all served as vehicles to explore multiverse concepts, but these narratives remain self-contained, lacking direct connections with one another.

This suggests that the incorporation of multiversal elements in the MCU is still in its experimental phase. While Thor: Love and Thunder may offer a different perspective, the trailers and available information do not indicate any significant multiversal elements. Similarly, the recent Disney series, Hawkeye and Moon Knight, have not incorporated multiversal storylines, indicating a more gradual approach to this narrative technique.

Conclusion: Future Possibilities for Variants

While Black Panther: Wakanda Forever does not feature a variant TChalla, the potential for future films to explore multiverse concepts remains open. If Thor: Love and Thunder introduces significant multiversal elements, this could change the landscape for future films, including a variant TChalla. However, for now, the film focuses on celebrating the enduring legacy of the character without attempting to recast him.

As the MCU continues to evolve, the exploration of multiverse storytelling may bring new dynamics to the franchise. But for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, the priority is clear: honoring the memory of Chadwick Boseman and continuing the story of TChalla as he was originally portrayed.