THR is reporting that The Jungle Book star Lupita Nyong’o is in talks for Marvel’s Black Panther. Set to star Chadwick Boseman, who will be reprising his role as the titular hero from Captain America: Civil War, the phase 3 flick is starting to put together its cast ahead of a February 2018 release.
Nyong’o’s role hasn’t been disclosed at the time of writing, but from what we’ve heard she’ll be playing T’Challa’s love interest. Who exactly that is though remains unknown and likely won’t be revealed until much closer to the start of production.
Whoever the actress ends up portraying, she’ll no doubt make a great addition to the cast. After breaking out in 12 Years a Slave, Nyong’o landed roles in blockbusters like The Jungle Book and Star Wars: The Force Awakens. While she excelled in both, her face was unfortunately hidden behind CGI, so it will definitely be nice to see her appear on screen in the flesh, rather than just hearing her voice.
She will, of course, appear on screen before Black Panther, both in Queen of Katwe and Intelligent Life, but this is certainly her next major role and having her join the MCU will no doubt see her career given yet another well deserved boost.
Directed by Ryan Coogler, Black Panther will head into production in early 2017 before pouncing into theatres on February 2nd, 2018.