Black Panther 3: Will Smith Steps Into the Role of Wakanda’s Protector in Exciting MCU Concept Trailer

Marvel Studios has sparked excitement with a striking concept trailer for Black Panther 3, featuring the talented Will Smith stepping into the role as the new Black Panther within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The legacy of Black Panther, originally portrayed by the late Chadwick Boseman, began in 2016’s Captain America: Civil War, and continued in the acclaimed 2018 film Black Panther. Tragically, Boseman passed away in 2020, leaving a significant void in the franchise. His character’s mantle was taken up by Shuri, played by Letitia Wright, but the future direction of the character remains uncertain.

The rumored Black Panther 3 might introduce a fresh take on the iconic superhero, with Will Smith as a standout candidate. In a concept trailer released by KH Studio, Smith is envisioned as a temporary Black Panther, stepping in to protect Wakanda during Shuri’s unexpected absence. The actor has voiced his desire to portray a Black superhero, noting that Black Panther represents one of the most influential roles he could take on.

The Impact of Will Smith’s Potential MCU Role

A Hope for Redemption

Will Smith, whose films have collectively earned over $9.5 billion, stands as one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. However, following a turbulent period marked by the events of the 2022 Academy Awards, his career has experienced a downturn. Notably, Marvel has a history of welcoming actors seeking redemption, evidenced by figures like Robert Downey Jr., making Smith’s potential entry into the MCU logical. In a candid interview with GQ in September 2021, Smith expressed his long-standing aspiration to don the cape of a Black superhero, with the role of Black Panther being particularly appealing.

I’ve always avoided making films about slavery. In the early part of my career… I didn’t want to show Black people in that light. I wanted to be a superhero. So I wanted to depict Black excellence alongside my white counterparts. I wanted to play roles that you would give to Tom Cruise. And the first time I considered it was Django [Unchained]. But I didn’t want to make a slavery film about vengeance.

Previously, Smith was in line to play Deadshot in the DC Extended Universe’s Suicide Squad but now, a heroic role in the MCU would allow him to fulfill his dream of portraying a Black superhero, providing him with an opportunity for a career resurgence following the widely publicized Oscar incident. Will Smith’s unparalleled talent deserves a fitting platform, and the MCU could be the perfect avenue for his comeback.

Our Vision for Will Smith as Black Panther

Envisioning a New Black Panther

Will Smith has a notable filmography, marked by iconic action-packed roles in movies such as Independence Day, Men in Black, Bad Boys, Hancock, and Suicide Squad. His ability to portray both dynamic action heroes and deeply emotional characters in films like The Pursuit of Happyness, Collateral Beauty, and King Richard makes him a fitting candidate for Black Panther. This character requires a mix of vulnerability and power, qualities that Smith embodies, making his potential redemption story through the MCU all the more appealing.

Sources: YouTube, GQ

Source & Images