Chadwick Boseman showcased a distinct physical presence in each role he took on. Using his body language and dialogue, the actor emphasized the significance and dignity of each character. He used the same approach when he was tasked with playing the role of T’Challa, also known as the Black Panther.
Marvel wanted Boseman to play the role with either an American or British accent; however, the actor refused. Boseman was concerned that using these accents would mean that Wakanda, the African nation ruled by T’Challa, had been colonized at some point in its history.
Chadwick Boseman Wasn’t Ready To Use American or British Accent
Chadwick Boseman made it very clear that Marvel’s request was a significant issue for him. The actor felt that compromising on this aspect could mean giving in to other things just to make people comfortable.
Boseman said (via MCU: The Reigns of Marvel Studios):
“It felt to me like a deal-breaker. I was like, ‘No, this is such an important factor that if we lose this right now, what else are we gonna throw away for the sake of making people feel comfortable?”
Instead, Boseman used an accent that had Xhosa influence. It is among the most indigenous languages of South Africa.
Boseman added:
“I found a dialect coach from Paytel, South Africa. We developed a relationship and continued to explore what T’Challa would be. I also worked with Sarah Shepherd, the dialect coach within Marvel, so I’d find something that people would feel is authentic and real, and that hopefully most people will understand. That was the main thing.”
Sebastian Stan, who squared off with the Black Panther in Captain America: Civil War, played the brainwashed Winter Soldier. He was quite impressed by Boseman’s character, thinking it was going to amaze everyone.
Marvel Could Bring Back T’challa’s Character
Recently, Marvel’s Kevin Feige suggested that the MCU could undergo a potential soft reboot with the film Avengers: Secret Wars. Considering the success MCU has achieved over the years, many are questioning the choice of rebooting it.
The reason behind it is the need to streamline the timeline, as the Studio has taken over the rights of Fox Marvel characters, including X-Men and the Fantastic Four. Besides the concerns with Marvel TV, Disney is altering its strategy to make new shows.
A soft reboot would definitely help Kevin Feige maintain the successful parts and let go of things that didn’t resonate with the audience. It will also allow Marvel to bring back key characters such as Iron Man, Black Panther (T’Challa), Thanos, Steve Rogers, and many others who either died or retired. Based on a tweet, it seems possible that T’challa will once again be seen in Black Panther.
