DeGeneres went on to say how difficult it must have been to return without the film’s star, Chadwick Boseman. In the first movie, he played T’Challa, also known as Black Panther. The actor sadly passed away after a four-year battle with colon cancer on August 28, 2020, at the age of 43.
“He was such an example, such a leader, an amazing talent—we all know that,” the actress said. “Big heart, great intellect, and we just hope to raise his standard.”
Back in May 2021, Bassett exclusively spoke with PureWow and revealed that she’s still confident the sequel will honor the late actor. “We will do it with much love and respect to our dear Chadwick,” she said at the time.
“No doubt, we are a spiritual people so we know that his spirit will permeate that set, even now, until it's presented to audiences,” she continued. “I’m grateful and thankful that we have at the helm producers who respect and support wholly and completely Ryan Coogler and his vision for this.”
After Black Panther was released in 2018, it captured the hearts of many (and earned $1.3 billion at the worldwide box office). Fans will get a chance to see what has become of Wakanda on November 11, 2022.
We’re marking our calendars.
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