Veteran actor Fana Mokoena took to Twitter on Wednesday to suggest that Marvel should consider casting Atandwa Kani for the role of King T’Challa in the blockbuster film Black Panther.
Atandwa Kani, the son of legendary film and theatre actor Dr John Kani played the young King T’Chaka, King T’Challa’s father in the iconic superhero film.
“I honestly think Marvel Studios would do well to consider Atandwa Kani as the next Black Panther. It’s about time an African from Africa played a superhero. If you like it, retweet and support #AtandwaKani4BlqckPanther Salute,” tweeted Mokoena.
I honestly think Marvel Studios would do well to consider Atandwa Kani as the next Black Panther. It’s about time an African from Africa played a superhero. If you like it, retweet and support #AtandwaKani4BlqckPanther Salute pic.twitter.com/iBk1hqTTkd
— Vezuchiy Fanashnikov (@fanamokoena) September 2, 2020
The former “Genenations” actor’s post received a mixed reaction on Twitter, with many stating that it was a bit insensitive following the recent passing of Chadwick Boseman.
“We are still mourning. Too soon. Too divisive, “ commented someone on Twitter.
We are still mourning. Too soon. Too divisive.
— Ramaphosa killed Mambush Noki (@YFD505) September 2, 2020
“They've already used that oke as young T'Chaka. The audience would feel disrespected coz who tf does that?” commented another.
They've already used that oke as young T'Chaka. The audience would feel disrespected coz who tf does that?
— M A K H O (@_makho_ZA) September 2, 2020
“Let's wait until we bury Chadwick with dignity then we discuss a way forward...Yaz kwangathi y'all been waiting for him to die...Anime Kancane!!! (wait a moment please),” added another user.
Let's wait until we bury Chadwick with dignity then we discuss a way forward...Yaz kwangathi y'all been waiting for him to die...Anime Kancane!!! pic.twitter.com/JHdqutbK7Z
And the comments keep flooding in, with some giving the suggestion their stamp of approval, while others suggested their own replacements.
Noble idea but we donna wanna be seen as greed or already fighting for inheritance before Chadwick is buried. We still mourning
— African Youth (@psamildo1) September 2, 2020
I've always felt that he deserved the role in the 1st place pic.twitter.com/tyeF0utLFm
How about him? He would be perfect pic.twitter.com/PMLV5AnQoX
— M.Z.M (@Yooooungblood) September 2, 2020
His better suited ... pic.twitter.com/lZcXMCGGh8
— ChillaxedSound 🇿🇦🇮🇹 (@Mthokojose) September 2, 2020
Apparently Marvel is considering John Boyega ( pictured below ). It will be difficult for Mr Kani to compete with him, honestly. pic.twitter.com/4OeU9YxCxP
Dr Kani, who also retweeted the post, quickly intervened as the Twitter war raged. He wrote: “I don’t think we should take this seriously. It was a fun thought. He has already played King T’Chaka the father.”
I don’t think we should take this seriously. It was a fun thought. He has already played King T’Chaka the father.
— JohnKani (@JohnKani2) September 2, 2020
Dr Kani also expressed his disappointment for not being able to attend Boseman’s funeral, due to the global pandemic that has forced countries to shut down their borders, in the effort to prevent the spread on the coronavirus.
What a pity that Connie and I will not be able to attend Chadwick Boseman’s funeral because of lockdown international boarders. I am sure that Atandwa who is in New York now will represent us all. 🙏🏿⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
— JohnKani (@JohnKani2) September 1, 2020
The 43-year-old star passed away last Friday at his Los Angeles home following a four-year battle with colon cancer, sending shock waves across the world.
Meanwhile, as fans and friends continue to celebrate the life of Boseman, Kani also paid tributes to the fallen hero.
He wrote:“I love you bruv... May your beautiful soul Rest in Eternal Peace...”
He added in another post: “Rest Well My Brother. We Shall Continue The Fight... 💔 Rest in Power Chad..”