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Black Panther 2 finally has a release date (May 6 2022) and there is one question on everyone’s lips: what will happen to T’Challa the Black Panther, the iconic character played by the late Chadwick Boseman?

Chadwick Boseman tragically passed away earlier this year at just 43 years old, after a secret battle with colon cancer, and fans are desperate to find out if his iconic role will be going to another actor.

Well, we finally have the answer, as Marvel has officially confirmed that out of respect, Chadwick Boseman will not be replaced. Instead, the “devastating loss” will be reflected in the sequel…

Disney confirmed that Marvel Studios “will not recast the character, but will explore the world of Wakanda & the rich characters introduced in the first film”.

According to Deadline, Marvel president Kevin Feige said he “wanted to acknowledge the devastating loss of a dear friend.”

“Chadwick Boseman was an immensely talented actor and an inspirational individual who affected all of our lives professionally and personally,” he continued.

“His portrayal of T’Challa the Black Panther is iconic and transcends iteration of the character in any other medium from Marvel’s past.

“It is for that reason that we will not recast the character.”

In other words, he is irreplaceable; and we couldn’t agree more!

“To honor the legacy that Chad helped us build with his portrayal of the King of Wakanda, we wanted to continue exploring that world and all the rich and varied characters introduced in the first film,” Kevin Feige added.

“Writer-director Ryan Coogler is hard at work on the sequel now.”

We sort of had a feeling that Marvel might go down this route. Back in October, Chadwick’s co-star Letitia Wright mentioned that having another actor step into his shoes would be very “strange”…

“We’re just still mourning Chad, so it’s not something I even want to think about,” the 27-year-old actress said.

“The thought of doing it without him is kinda strange. We’re just grieving at the moment, so it’s trying to find the light in the midst of it.”

We can’t wait to see how the movie will address everything – we have faith that the story and the memory of Chadwick Boseman and his iconic character will be in safe hands!