Black Panther: Wakanda Forever actor could be first MCU star to win Oscar

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is perhaps the most anticipated MCU outing of the year, and it’s finally out in the world. Already, critics are hailing Wakanda Forever as the best MCU film in years and it’s landed a very respectable score of 84% on Rotten Tomatoes. To fans though, the film means so much more.

Many have been reduced to tears by the opening logo’s heartwarming tribute to Chadwick Boseman. Boseman, best known for portraying T’Challa, sadly passed away in 2020 following a battle with colon cancer. Wakanda Forever does not recast the role. Instead, the kingdom of Wakanda mourns the loss of their leader. As I’m sure you can imagine, it’s a very poignant film and some fans suspect it may even garner some Oscar nominations.

Check out the trailer for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever below.

Traditionally, superhero films don’t fare particularly well at the Oscars. They often pick up visual effects or hair and make-up nominations, but it’s rare you’ll see a superhero-related acting or directing nom. DC’s Joker was an exception of course, as was Heath Ledger’s acting nomination (and win) for his portrayal of Joker in The Dark Knight.

Marvel is yet to scoop those coveted awards but Wakanda Forever could change that. Fans are praising Angela Bassett’s performance as Queen Ramonda, suggesting that she could be the first MCU actor to receive an Academy Award acting nom. As reported by ComicBook, fans shared just how impressed they were by Bassett over on Twitter.

Ashish Chanchlani wrote, “Angela Bassett should win an Oscar for her performance in Wakanda Forever. For me, she is the show stealer of the film. The scene where she confronts Okoye is brilliant acting.” Decodnlyfe1 added, “I’m loving everyone saying ‘Oscar’ for Angela Bassett,” while hosthetics added, “Angela Bassett deserves an Oscar for this scene in Wakanda Forever alone,” adding a picture of a particular confrontation I won’t be delving into for spoiler’s sake. I quite agree though - an incredible performance.