As a huge fan of Denzel Washington‘s illustrious career spanning over four decades, I can confidently say that his versatility and talent are unparalleled in Hollywood. With such an extensive resume, it’s challenging to pinpoint just one role he should play in the upcoming Black Panther 3. However, considering his knack for portraying complex characters with depth and nuance, I believe he would excel as Changamire or Achebe, two intriguing figures from Wakanda’s rich tapestry.
The news that Denzel Washington is going to be in Black Panther 3 is one of the most earth-shattering surprises in pop culture as of late for a couple of reasons. For one, the two-time Academy Award winner previously claimed that he was “beyond the tights years,” while also adding that he is not completely opposed to the idea of starring in an upcoming superhero movie, in 2016. Secondly, there was no official announcement that there would be a third Black Panther movie (and there still is none, as of November 2024) when he nonchalantly revealed that Ryan Coogler was writing a part for him while doing press for his new 2024 movie, Gladiator II.
Currently, the esteemed veteran actor is unsure about his role in “Black Panther 3”. Despite this uncertainty, he has expressed readiness to take on any part offered to him, be it major or minor, due to his high regard for director Coogler, who is also set to release a thriller titled “Sinners” in 2025. I am confident that Washington will deliver an outstanding performance in the upcoming Marvel film. However, I find myself intrigued about which character from the Marvel Comics universe Washington might portray in this sequel to one of the most successful Marvel movies. So, I decided to explore and share some potential characters that Washington could play in this forthcoming sequel.
Olumo Bashenga
Denzel Washington indicates he’s flexible about appearing in just a single scene or line in Black Panther 3, which I wholeheartedly appreciate. But should that be the case, an actor of his caliber would undoubtedly want a standout cameo. If given the opportunity, he could undeniably create a lasting impact by portraying Olumo Bashenga.
In stories predating T’Challa, T’Chaka, and Shuri, the character known as Bashenga is often considered the original Black Panther, first appearing in a 1977 issue of “Black Panther”. However, a comic from 2017 called “Avengers of 1,000,000 BC” later contradicted this, introducing Mosi as the first Wakandan warrior to wear the black costume. Nevertheless, Bashenga is still revered as Wakanda’s first king, so a flashback or a scene set in the Ancestral Plane featuring Bashenga might be fitting for Washington’s character.
S’Yan
Instead of just imagining Denzel Washington appearing in Black Panther 3, it would be even more exciting if he played a significant role, perhaps as a new character from T’Challa and Shuri’s family we haven’t met before. Off the top of my head, I think their uncle, S’Yan, could fit that bill perfectly.
In 2005, T’Chaka’s brother, initially presented in Marvel Comics, was brought to life by filmmaker Reginald Hudlin and artist John Romita Jr. He was portrayed as a formidable warrior who imparted his extensive combat knowledge onto his nephew. It would be intriguing if this character made an appearance in a flashback depicting T’Challa’s childhood, followed by reemergence in the present day as a mentor to Shuri while she upholds her position as the Black Panther.
Doctor Voodoo
It’s exciting to imagine Denzel Washington portraying a Wakandan character, but another side of me yearns for him to embody a hero from an entirely different universe. I believe his introduction to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is long overdue, and the character in question is none other than Jericho Drumm, also known as Doctor or Brother Voodoo. If he were cast in this role, it might just be enough to make us forget about his absence from the franchise.
In the speculation of Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) appearances, it was once whispered that the Sorcerer Supreme from the world of voodoo could have been featured in the 2016 film “Doctor Strange” and again in the 2022 release “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness”, but he was noticeably absent in the earlier instalment. As the MCU has delved deeper into realms of darkness and mysticism with productions such as the “WandaVision” spinoff titled “Agatha All Along”, I believe it’s high time we witness Doctor Voodoo performing his arcane arts. Bringing him to life, through the talents of Washington, in “Black Panther 3” would undoubtedly create an enthralling spectacle.
Changamire
I just remembered that I, coincidentally, included Doctor Voodoo on a list of Marvel characters John David Washington should play. So if Denzel Washington would be willing to pass on that role for his son’s sake, I have another potential Black Panther 3 role in mind that would be even more fascinating named Changamire.
In the imaginative realm of renowned author Ta-Nehisi Coates and artist Brian Stelfreeze, Changamire emerged as a philosopher who found himself in King T’Chaka’s royal court as a tutor, and as a private guide to Queen Ramonda. However, his teachings, which were anti-royalist in nature, unintentionally sparked a violent uprising within the prosperous nation of Wakanda. This tumultuous period in Wakanda’s history could prove to be a captivating foundation for Black Panther 3, making the prospect of Washington portraying Changamire all the more intriguing.
Tetu
Absolutely, Denzel Washington’s captivating portrayal of the corrupt LAPD detective Alonzo Harris in the Oscar-winning film “Training Day” in 2001 showcases his talent for playing villainous characters. Therefore, it would be intriguing to imagine him taking on a more definitively wicked role in “Black Panther 3”. This could potentially provide an opportunity for the movie to explore the hypothetical Wakandan civil war storyline.
In the course of his studies under Changamire, Tetu found himself deeply moved by his mentor’s anti-monarchical ideals, ultimately rising to become a joint leader of a revolutionary force known as The People. Reminiscent of the captivating antagonists often seen in Marvel films, crafting an intriguing villain involves striking a balance between instilling fear and commanding respect, while providing a compelling motive for their actions. With his storytelling prowess, Washington could effortlessly bring forth one of the most formidable and respected MCU villains to date.
Achebe
Additionally, I find it intriguing to consider the depths of darkness Denzel Washington could reach in his role as a sinister character. To fully exploit this potential, let’s imagine him taking on a significantly menacing adversary. For such a role, we might draw inspiration from the brooding persona portrayed by Achebe in his works.
Originally a benevolent family man educated at college, hailing from Ghudaza – an African nation – he was pushed to insanity following rebel attacks that razed his farm, took the life of his wife, and left him near death. This survivor, however, would eventually mastermind a plot to overthrow the government of Wakanda with aid from Mephisto. This kind of compelling villain character is a dream role for any actor eager to break into comic book movies, and Washington has the potential to bring a distinctive touch to it.
We’re eagerly waiting for some official news about Black Panther 3 being developed soon and perhaps a sneak peek of Denzel Washington’s character in the sequel. In the meantime, check out other thrilling movies scheduled for release in 2025 on our upcoming list.
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2024-11-28 13:07