Danai Gurira To Return As Okoye In 'Black Panther' Spinoff Series & 'Wakanda Forever'

There are still a bunch of questions surrounding the forthcoming “Black Panther” sequel, “Wakanda Forever.” How will the franchise deal with the sudden passing of star Chadwick Boseman? Will there be an existing character taking over the mantle or will there be someone brand-new? Well, we are still quite a while from knowing the answer to those questions, but in terms of one familiar face, Danai Gurira, we know that she’s not only returning for “Wakanda Forever” but also the untitled “Black Panther” spinoff series coming to Disney+.

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According to Collider, Danai Gurira is not only returning for the upcoming “Black Panther” sequel, but she is also set to bring her character, Okoye, to the recently-announced spinoff series that is set to debut on Disney+. Obviously, details about the size of her role in the spinoff series and the sequel are unknown at this time, as Marvel Studios is keen on keeping secrets. However, for fans of the franchise, she’s a welcome presence in whatever capacity the studio decides to use her.

For those unaware, Okoye is the leader of the Dora Milaje, the all-female force that protects the Wakandan royal family and leads the military. She first appeared in “Black Panther” back in 2018. However, she also showed up in “Avengers: Infinity War” as well as “Avengers: Endgame,” quickly becoming a fan-favorite character.

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Though we don’t know much about the new film and the new series, both are being spearheaded by creator Ryan Coogler, who is writing and directing the sequel film and is heavily involved in the production of the Disney+ series. The Wakandan-set series doesn’t have an official release date, but with the pace that the studio is releasing these shows, it wouldn’t be shocking to see it arrive sometime by the end of 2022. “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” does have a release date and will debut in theaters on July 8, 2022.