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Tag: Chadwick boseman

  • Ryan Coogler’s Original Plan for Chadwick Boseman in ‘Black Panther 2’ Was So Good

    After the heartbreaking loss of Chadwick Boseman, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever became more than just a film. It became a cathartic celebration of life, allowing everyone who watched it to face pain and grief in their own unique ways. But, according to writer-director Ryan Coogler, the original version of the movie with Boseman at the center would’ve been equally as powerful, just in a whole different way.

    Speaking on Josh Horowitz’s Happy Sad Confused podcast, Coogler detailed specifically what his original script for Black Panther 2 would’ve been about, and it sounds absolutely incredible. “I loved that script, bro,” Coogler said. “I put so much into that version of the movie because I felt like I had gotten to know Chadwick as a performer.”

    So what was it about exactly? “The big thing about the script was that it was this thing called the Ritual of Eight,” Coogler said. “When a prince is eight years old, he has to go spend eight days in the bush with his father. Amongst those eight days, they have to go into the bush without any tools. And the prince has to listen and do everything that’s asked of him by his father, but the rule is, for those eight days, the prince can ask the father any question. And the father has to answer.”

    “So during the course of those eight days, Namor launches an attack,” Coogler continued. “So that was what the movie was. He had to deal with somebody, and it was a different version of Namor in that script, but he had to deal with someone who was, like, insanely dangerous. But, because of this ritual, his son had to be joined at his hip the whole time. So while he was engaging in negotiations and fights, his son had to be right there, or else they’d have to violate this ritual, which had never been broken.”

    Coogler also revealed that when he finished that version of the script, he sent it to Boseman to read, but he was too sick to do so. He passed sometime after, and for a while some people thought the movie would never happen. That was until Coogler then took the tragic loss of Boseman and put it right at the heart of the new film, making it about how Wakanda and its people dealt with the loss of their king. It went on to be a huge hit, and Coogler is currently working on a third film, expected to be released in 2028. Oh, and he made a small film called Sinners in between.

    But fans will always think about how things would’ve been different if Boseman were still with us, and now, finally, we know Coogler had a completely different, equally brilliant smash on his hands. You can watch Coogler talk about Black Panther 2 in the video below. Rewind a few minutes to hear all of the Black Panther talk, and two movies ahead for more on Black Panther 3.

    Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

    Germain Lussier

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  • Chadwick Boseman honored with posthumous star on Hollywood Walk of Fame: ‘He was an incredible leader’

    (CNN) — Friends, family and fans gathered Thursday to honor the late Chadwick Boseman receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles.

    Thursday was declared “Chadwick Boseman Day” in Hollywood, and his “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” costar Viola Davis, his “Black Panther” director Ryan Coogler and Boseman’s widow Taylor Simone Ledward Boseman spoke during the emotional ceremony.

    “I have to believe that Chadwick is still alive,” Davis said. “I can’t use the word ‘gone’ or ‘death’ really when thinking about him.”

    The “Black Panther” actor died in 2020 at the age of 43 after a private battle with colon cancer.

    Davis noted that they worked on their Oscar-winning movie “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” just before he passed, and said Boseman “was always trying to engage me on the set” talking about the “cap of success” and having the types of conversations that she believes people have when they know they “possibly are transitioning.”

    The late actor, she said in her tribute, was a “mighty mighty elixir that sort of stirred up the alchemy that we’re all in search of, which is meaning.”

    “I celebrate him today. And I say to him, I hope all the angels in heaven just sang him to a beautiful rest,” Davis said. “And I thank him for what he left behind in me, which is a burning ember that always guides me to a higher meaning of my work and my purpose.”

    “This star, as beautiful as it is on the Walk of Fame, shines a whole lot less brighter than Chadwick is in heaven,” she concluded her speech.

    Coogler, Boseman’s friend who directed him in the “Black Panther” Marvel film, asked for attendees’ understanding as he emotionally talked about the late star.

    “When I think of Chadwick Boseman I think of three things: leadership, teaching and generosity,” Coogler said. “He was an incredible leader.”

    The famed “Sinners” director said Boseman was “ageless,” and joked he didn’t know his age until he went to one of his birthday parties. He also told a story about Boseman sneaking past stars like Sylvestor Stallone, Michael B. Jordan (who was present at Thursday’s ceremony) and others to get into Coogler’s hotel room during a big press tour for the 2015 film “Creed.”

    Boseman, Coogler said, wanted to meet with him to talk about working together on “Black Panther” and managed to evade even the press that were were present.

    “I was so impressed by that and I asked him how he got past everybody and he smiled and said, ‘That was the Panther,’” Coogler said, chuckling.

    Boseman’s wife was the last to take the podium, and had a heartfelt message for her late husband.

    “Chad, today we recognize a lifetime of artistry. We recognize your skill and your devotion and we cement your legacy as a hero and icon,” she said. “You lived with honor and you walked in truth. You were as brilliant as you were beautiful and as courageous as you were kind. We love you, we miss you and we thank you.”

    She then invited her husband’s brothers, Derrick and Kevin Boseman, to help with the unveiling of the star.

    In addition to portraying T’Challa in “Black Panther” and other Marvel movies as well as his Academy Award-nominated turn in Netflix’s “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” Boseman had a robust film and television career, and portrayed Thurgood Marshall, James Brown and Jackie Robinson on film before his untimely passing.

    Lisa Respers France and CNN

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  • Chadwick Boseman Fans Are in Tears After Watching Marvel Zombies

    Chadwick Boseman’s legacy resurfaced in Marvel Zombies with T’Challa’s on-screen sacrifice. In the animated series, Black Panther battles Zombie Thanos before giving his life to destroy the Infinity Stones. The moment arrives as Marvel continues to expand its animated slate on Disney+.

    T’Challa’s Marvel Zombies sacrifice makes Chadwick Boseman fans sad

    T’Challa’s sacrifice in Marvel Zombies has sparked strong reactions online, with fans of Chadwick Boseman reflecting on the emotional moment. In the animated series, Black Panther fights Zombie Thanos and ultimately gives his life to destroy the Infinity Stones. The episode shows Spider-Man narrating the event, framing it as a heroic farewell to the Wakandan king.

    Viewers on X (formerly Twitter) expressed how deeply the scene resonated. One post read, “This part really got me crying. T’Challa is so fearless, leaping like a real panther… and still just as powerful. #MarvelZombies.” Another fan highlighted the pivotal moment: “Zombie Thanos vs Black Panther HELL YEAH and he sacrificed himself to save the universe, damn it was emotional.”

    The sequence also carried significance for those who tied it back to Boseman’s legacy. One user shared, “[SPOILERS] Witnessing T’Challa in action once more meant everything. As the Wakandan music played, tears clouded my eyes immediately… man, I missed him so much. You’ll always be my favorite superhero and still one of my strongest inspirations.” The comment received over 737,000 views, reflecting the impact of the scene.

    Another post pointed out Marvel’s handling of the character: “Marvel gave Chadwick Boseman a final heroic send-off in #MarvelZombies—Black Panther sacrifices himself to destroy Zombie Thanos and the Infinity Stones… with Spider-Man telling the story. Should Marvel Studios have recast T’Challa’s voice, or is this the perfect farewell?” Alongside the post, images showed Black Panther battling Zombie Thanos in a glowing suit, with a caption overlay reading, “Like he knew that it was the last time.”

    The storyline offered audiences a chance to see T’Challa’s bravery once more, with many fans framing it as a powerful tribute.

    Originally reported by Vritti Johar on SuperHeroHype.

    Evolve Editors

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  • Who the Hell Is Nelson Peltz, the Billionaire Investor Disney Is Freaking Out About?

    Who the Hell Is Nelson Peltz, the Billionaire Investor Disney Is Freaking Out About?

    So-called activist investor Nelson Peltz, who’s aiming to win two Disney board seats, has stirred up some controversy by calling out Disney’s recent era of “woke” strategy through diversifying its slate of films at Marvel Studios.

    Andor Episodes 1-3 Review

    The 81-year-old businessman, whose experience is with food companies including Wendy’s and H.J. Heinz as well as having once supported the DeSantis presidential campaign, had a lot to say about The Marvels and Black Panther in an interview with the Financial Times. “Why do I have to have a Marvel [movie] that’s all women?” Peltz asked the publication. “Not that I have anything against women, but why do I have to do that? Why can’t I have Marvels that are both? Why do I need an all-Black cast?” Side note: Peltz happens to be the father of Nicola Peltz, who played Katara in 2010’s infamously very white Last Airbender adaptation.

    He continued, “People go to watch a movie or a show to be entertained. They don’t go to get a message.” Since he also claimed that he doesn’t have experience in media, it’s interesting to note that Peltz’s Trian Partners is pushing for this vote as part of Ike Perlmutter’s hopes for retaliation against Disney CEO Bob Iger, who terminated him from Marvel Entertainment last year. Variety reported that, “Trian controls roughly $3.5 billion worth of Disney stock, 79% of which is owned by Perlmutter.” This goes back to Perlmutter’s feud with Kevin Feige, who pushed for Black Panther and Captain Marvel. Perlmutter fought against diversity in Marvel’s slate until Iger stepped in to force his hand and allow the films to be made.

    Ryan Coogler’s Black Panther, starring the late Chadwick Boseman, was a hit with $1.35 billion at the worldwide box office; it kicked off the Academy Award-winning franchise and brought more inclusivity to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Proving Perlmutter wrong publicly while revealing the lengths the forner Marvel exec went to in order to stop diverse superhero toys, merch, and movies being made really propelled Feige into the public’s good graces. Recent misses for the studio including The Marvels have caused some Marvel watchers to wonder if Feige’s position should be called into question. When asked by the Financial Times if it should, Peltz responded, “I’m not ready to say that, but I question his record.”

    Disney board member George Lucas recently stood up against Peltz by releasing a statement (reprinted in Variety and elsewhere) to support Bob Iger in rejecting his bid. “Creating magic is not for amateurs,” Lucas said in a shot right at Peltz, who also admitted to the Financial Times he’s been a bit of a bully. (“What sense is being a billionaire if you’re not a bully?” Peltz has been quoted as saying.) Which is such a strange stance to bring into Disney, standing directly against all it represents.

    Lucas continued, “When I sold Lucasfilm just over a decade ago, I was delighted to become a Disney shareholder because of my longtime admiration for its iconic brand and Bob Iger’s leadership.” He added, “When Bob recently returned to the company during a difficult time, I was relieved. No one knows Disney better. I remain a significant shareholder because I have full faith and confidence in the power of Disney and Bob’s track record of driving long-term value. I have voted all of my shares for Disney’s 12 directors and urge other shareholders to do the same.”

    Peltz aims to add more board seats for his hedge fund firm through his Disney bid and support the agenda that Ike Perlmutter, his silent third party partner, has advocated for during his Disney tenure. The Hollywood Reporter disclosed that Perlmutter had this up his sleeve as soon as he was terminated, as he immediately pledged his stakes in Disney to Peltz. Before Iger came back Peltz had attempted a proxy battle with the company as a result of its losses, but was held off by his return. With this seat bid he hopes for round two in having more direct influence on the company board.

    Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

    Sabina Graves

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  • Why 27,400 blue flags are waving at the National Mall in DC – WTOP News

    Why 27,400 blue flags are waving at the National Mall in DC – WTOP News

    If you head down to the National Mall in D.C. over the next two weeks you’ll see 27,400 blue flags placed in front of the U.S. Capitol. Here’s why.

    If you head down to the National Mall in D.C. over the next two weeks you’ll see 27,400 blue flags placed in front of the U.S. Capitol.
    (WTOP/Luke Lukert)

    WTOP/Luke Lukert

    Unite in blue
    The blue flags represent the number of Americans under 50 who will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer this year.
    (WTOP/Luke Lukert)

    WTOP/Luke Lukert

    Unite in blue
    The United in Blue rally joined dozens of nonprofits together with Fight Colorectal Cancer to demand more federal funding for research on the disease, specifically establishing a $20 million research program within the Defense Department.
    (WTOP/Luke Lukert)

    WTOP/Luke Lukert

    If you head down to the National Mall in D.C. over the next two weeks you’ll see 27,400 blue flags placed in front of the U.S. Capitol.

    They represent the number of Americans under 50 who will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer this year.

    “I should be at home with a husband that should still be on this earth,” Simone Ledward Boseman told the crowd Tuesday morning at the United in Blue rally.

    Her husband, “Black Panther” actor Chadwick Boseman, died from colorectal cancer at the age of 43.

    “It makes me angry that a disease so treatable took him from me, when all we needed to start out with was knowledge,” she said.

    The United in Blue rally joined dozens of nonprofits together with Fight Colorectal Cancer to demand more federal funding for research on the disease, specifically establishing a $20 million research program within the Defense Department.

    “I served in the Middle East multiple tours. I got exposed to the burn pits, and I got diagnosed with two primary cancers simultaneously,” said Republican Rep. Mark Green, of Tennessee.

    “I ignored the symptoms. And nine years ago, I was diagnosed with colon cancer. I did the radiation and lost a foot and a half of my colon,” Green said.

    He and others advocated for early detection and legislation that would make it easier for patients to obtain screenings through their health insurance.

    New Jersey Democratic Rep. Donald Payne Jr. lost his father to the disease.

    “After my father’s death, I went for my first colonoscopy,” Payne said. “I probably wouldn’t have gone had he not succumb to the disease. But when I had my first colonoscopy, they found 13 polyps. So I was on my way.”

    The blue flags on the National Mall will be in place until March 23.

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    Luke Lukert

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  • 25 Famous Black Actors Of All Time: From Denzel Washington To Will Smith

    25 Famous Black Actors Of All Time: From Denzel Washington To Will Smith


    Hollywood teems with aspiring actors seeking stardom, yet only a select few attain great success. For black actors, the journey is often more arduous, marked by discrimination and limited opportunities. Who are some of the greatest black actors in the film industry? From Oscar winners such as Denzel Washington, and iconic figures like Sidney Poitier, to charismatic movie stars like Will Smith, each distinguished Black actor mentioned here has rightfully earned their spot through an impressive body of work and unforgettable performances. In honor of Black History Month this February, here’s a compilation of some of the famous black actors in the industry.

    25 famous black actors of all time

     

    1. Denzel Washington

     

    Denzel Washington is a highly accomplished black actor known for his outstanding performances in movies. Born on December 28, 1954, in Mount Vernon, New York, he has become one of Hollywood’s most respected and successful stars. Denzel has received numerous awards, including two Academy Awards for Best Actor, showcasing his incredible talent and versatility on the big screen. His impressive filmography includes iconic roles in blockbuster films like Training Day, Glory, and Malcolm X.

     

    2. Forest Whitaker

     

    Forest Whitaker

    Forest Whitaker is a highly regarded African American actor known for his remarkable contributions to the film industry. Born on July 15, 1961, in Longview, Texas, he has established himself as a versatile and talented performer. Forest has received various accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Actor for his captivating portrayal of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin in the film The Last King of Scotland.

    Throughout his career, Forest Whitaker has showcased his acting prowess in a wide range of roles, from intense dramas to inspiring biopics. His notable works include performances in movies such as Bird, The Butler, and Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai. Additionally, Forest has been recognized for his contributions to both film and humanitarian efforts.

     

    3. Morgan Freeman

    Morgan Freeman

    Morgan Freeman, born on June 1, 1937, in Memphis, Tennessee, is an iconic actor and film narrator with a career spanning decades. Known for his distinctive voice and commanding presence, Freeman has earned numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Million Dollar Baby.

    Freeman’s filmography boasts a diverse range of roles, from memorable characters in classics like The Shawshank Redemption and Driving Miss Daisy to powerful performances in contemporary hits like The Dark Knight and Invictus.

    4. Will Smith

    Will Smith

    ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Royal Blood on ‘being on holiday’ as a band, plans for 10th anniversary release and favorite Jo Bro

    Will Smith, born on September 25, 1968, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is one of the best black actors, producer, rapper, and one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars. He gained fame in the late 1980s as part of the hip-hop duo DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince before making his film debut.

    Smith’s acting career took off with the hit TV series The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, showcasing his comedic and dramatic talents. He seamlessly transitioned to the big screen with blockbuster successes like Independence Day, Men in Black, and Bad Boys.

    5. Sidney Poitier

    Sidney Poitier

    Sidney Poitier, born on February 20, 1927, in Miami, Florida, is a legendary actor, film director, author, and the first African-American to win the Academy Award for Best Actor. Raised in the Bahamas, Poitier moved to the United States at age 15.

    Poitier’s acting career took off in the 1950s, and he became a trailblazer for black actors during a time of racial inequality in Hollywood. He earned acclaim for his roles in films such as Lilies of the Field, for which he won the Academy Award in 1963, and Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner.

    Beyond breaking barriers, Poitier also directed films like Uptown Saturday Night and A Piece of the Action. His impact extends to his writing, with notable works like his autobiography, The Measure of a Man.

    6. Jamie Foxx

    Jamie Foxx

    Jamie Foxx, born Eric Marlon Bishop on December 13, 1967, in Terrell, Texas, is among top black actors, singer, comedian, and producer. He adopted the stage name Jamie Foxx to avoid gender bias in the entertainment industry.

    Foxx rose to prominence as a stand-up comedian and gained recognition with his work on the sketch comedy show In Living Color in the early 1990s. He transitioned to acting, making his mark in films like Any Given Sunday and Collateral.

    His breakthrough came with the biographical film Ray (2004), portraying legendary musician Ray Charles. Foxx’s remarkable performance earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor, establishing him as a leading figure in Hollywood.

     

    7. Cuba Gooding Jr.

    Cuba Gooding Jr.

    ALSO READ: Everything To Know About The Mean Girls Star Reneé Rapp Who’s Become Gen Z’s Latest Obsession

    Cuba Gooding Jr., born on January 2, 1968, in The Bronx, New York, is an acclaimed actor known for his versatile performances across various film genres. He comes from a family with connections to the entertainment industry, with his father being a singer.

    Gooding gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Tre Styles in John Singleton’s critically acclaimed film Boyz n the Hood (1991). His breakthrough performance earned him praise and set the stage for a successful acting career.

    One of Cuba Gooding Jr.’s most iconic roles came in 1996 when he starred as the charming football player Rod Tidwell in Cameron Crowe’s Jerry Maguire. His memorable line, Show me the money! became a cultural catchphrase, and he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for this role.

     

    8. Mekhi Phifer

    Mekhi Phifer

    Mekhi Phifer, born on December 29, 1974, in Harlem, New York, is an African American actors actor best known for his roles in both television and film. He grew up in a single-parent household and pursued acting as a career from a young age.

    Phifer gained significant recognition for his captivating performances as Dr. Gregory Pratt on the medical drama series ER, where he appeared from 2002 to 2008. His portrayal of the character earned him widespread acclaim and showcased his versatility as an actor.

    In addition to his television success, Mekhi Phifer has appeared in several notable films. One of his breakthrough roles was in the critically acclaimed film Clockers (1995), directed by Spike Lee. He continued to make a mark in the industry with roles in movies like Soul Food (1997), and 8 Mile (2002) alongside Eminem, and O (2001), a modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s Othello.

    9. Laurence Fishburne

    Laurence Fishburne

    Laurence Fishburne, born on July 30, 1961, in Augusta, Georgia, is a highly acclaimed black movie star, producer, and director. With a career spanning several decades, Fishburne has established himself as a versatile and respected figure for his memorable performances in the entertainment industry.

    Fishburne gained early recognition for his role as a troubled teenager in the film Boyz n the Hood (1991), directed by John Singleton. However, his breakthrough came with the iconic role of Morpheus in the groundbreaking science fiction film The Matrix (1999), directed by the Wachowskis. The success of The Matrix trilogy solidified Fishburne’s status as a prominent actor in Hollywood.

    10. Wesley Snipes

    Wesley Snipes

    Wesley Snipes, born on July 31, 1962, in Orlando, Florida, is a versatile American actor, film producer, and martial artist. Known for his charismatic screen presence and action-packed roles, Snipes has left a significant mark on the entertainment industry.

    Snipes gained prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s with roles in films such as Major League (1989) and New Jack City (1991). However, he became a household name with his portrayal of the vampire hunter Blade in the successful Blade film trilogy, beginning with Blade in 1998.

    11. Samuel L. Jackson

    Samuel L. Jackson

    Samuel L. Jackson, born on December 21, 1948, in Washington, D.C., is an iconic American actor and film producer with a prolific career spanning decades. Known for his commanding presence, distinctive voice, and versatility, Jackson has become a widely recognized figure in the entertainment industry.

    Jackson’s breakthrough came with his collaboration with director Spike Lee in films like Do the Right Thing (1989) and Jungle Fever (1991). However, it was his role as Jules Winnfield in Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction (1994) that catapulted him to international fame, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

    12. Larenz Tate

    Larenz Tate

    Larenz Tate, born on September 8, 1975, in Chicago, Illinois, is one of famous african american actors known for his dynamic performances in film and television. With a career spanning several decades, Tate has established himself as a talented and versatile actor.

    Tate gained early recognition for his breakout role in the critically acclaimed film Menace II Society (1993), where he portrayed the character O-Dog. He continued to showcase his acting prowess in movies like Dead Presidents (1995), Love Jones (1997), and The Postman (1997).

    In addition to his success in film, Larenz Tate has made a significant impact on television. He has been featured in various TV shows, including his notable role as Bart Black Shawn Johnston in the popular series Power.

    13. Chadwick Boseman

    Chadwick Boseman

    Chadwick Boseman, born on November 29, 1976, in Anderson, South Carolina, was a black American actor known for his powerful performances and significant contributions to the film industry. Unfortunately, he passed away on August 28, 2020, at the age of 43.

    Boseman gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of historical figures, most notably Jackie Robinson in 42 (2013) and James Brown in Get on Up (2014). However, he achieved global stardom and became an icon for his role as T’Challa/Black Panther in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, debuting in Captain America: Civil War (2016) and headlining Black Panther (2018).

    14. Eddie Murphy

    Eddie Murphy

    Eddie Murphy, born on April 3, 1961, in Brooklyn, New York, is a highly influential black actor, comedian, writer, producer, and singer. Murphy’s career began in the late 1970s as a cast member on the comedy show Saturday Night Live (SNL), where he gained widespread recognition for his comedic talent.

    In the 1980s, Eddie Murphy transitioned to film and became one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. His breakout role came in 48 Hrs. (1982), followed by numerous successful films such as Beverly Hills Cop (1984), Coming to America (1988), and The Nutty Professor (1996). Murphy displayed his versatility by taking on various roles, from action films to family comedies.

    15. Idris Elba

    Idris Elba

    Idris Elba, born on September 6, 1972, in London, England, is a British actor, producer, musician, and DJ. Known for his commanding presence and versatility, Elba has established himself as one of the most respected and sought-after actors in the entertainment industry.

    Elba gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Stringer Bell in the acclaimed television series The Wire (2002-2004). His notable film roles include performances in Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013), where he portrayed Nelson Mandela, Beasts of No Nation (2015), and as Heimdall in the Marvel Cinematic Universe films

    16. Michael B. Jordan

    Michael B. Jordan

    Michael B. Jordan, born on February 9, 1987, in Santa Ana, California, is one of the best black actors and producers out there. He rose to prominence for his compelling performances in both film and television, establishing himself as a leading figure in the entertainment industry.

    Jordan’s breakthrough came with his role as Wallace in the critically acclaimed television series The Wire (2002-2004). He gained widespread recognition and acclaim for his portrayal of Oscar Grant in the film Fruitvale Station (2013).

    His career continued to soar with notable roles in movies like Creed (2015), where he played the lead role of Adonis Creed, and as Erik Killmonger in Marvel’s Black Panther (2018).

    17. James Earl Jones

    James Earl Jones

    James Earl Jones, born on January 17, 1931, is a top black actor known for his commanding voice and versatile performances in both stage and film. With an illustrious career, he has received acclaim for his work in classics like The Great White Hope on Broadway, earning him a Tony Award.

    Jones is also famous for providing the voice of Darth Vader in the Star Wars franchise. His impactful contributions to the entertainment industry have solidified him as a legendary figure in acting.

    18. Don Cheadle

    Don Cheadle

    Don Cheadle, born on November 29, 1964, is an accomplished American actor, producer, and author. With a career spanning decades, Cheadle has showcased his talent in a variety of roles, earning critical acclaim and several award nominations. He gained recognition for his performances in films like Hotel Rwanda, earning an Academy Award nomination, and in the Ocean’s Eleven trilogy. Cheadle’s versatility extends to television, where he starred in the series House of Lies, earning a Golden Globe Award. 

    19. Billy Dee Williams

    Billy Dee Williams

    Billy Dee Williams, born on April 6, 1937, is an American actor, artist, and singer. He gained fame for his smooth and charismatic performances, earning him a place as a notable figure in Hollywood.

    Williams is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Lando Calrissian in the Star Wars franchise, appearing in The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. 

    Beyond his sci-fi roles, he showcased his acting prowess in films like Lady Sings the Blues alongside Diana Ross and Mahogany. Williams is recognized not only for his acting but also for his artistic talent, as he is a skilled painter.

    20. Terrence Howard

    Terrence Howard

    Terrence Howard, born on March 11, 1969, is an American actor, singer, and film producer. He rose to prominence for his versatile performances in various films and television shows. Howard gained critical acclaim for his role in Hustle & Flow, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. He is also known for his role as James Rhodey Rhodes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in the first Iron Man film. 

    21. Harry Belafonte

    Harry Belafonte

    Harry Belafonte, born on March 1, 1927, is an American singer, actor, and social activist. He is widely regarded as one of the most successful and influential entertainers in the world. Belafonte’s career spans over seven decades, during which he achieved fame as a singer with hit songs like Banana Boat Song (Day-O) and Jamaica Farewell.

    In addition to his musical success, Belafonte made significant contributions to the civil rights movement. He used his platform to advocate for social justice, participating in various protests and supporting initiatives to address racial inequality, adding him to the list of good black actors in Hollywood. 

    22. Keith David

    Keith David

    Keith David, born on June 4, 1956, is an American actor and voice actor with a prolific career spanning film, television, and theater. Known for his distinctive voice and versatile acting skills, David has become a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

    He has appeared in a wide range of films, including notable roles in Platoon, The Thing, They Live, and Crash. In addition to his on-screen work, David has made significant contributions as a voice actor, lending his talents to animated projects, video games, and narration.

    23. Richard Pryor

    Richard Pryor

    Richard Pryor, born on December 1, 1940, was an iconic American stand-up comedian, actor, and social critic. Widely regarded as one of the greatest comedians in the history of stand-up comedy, Pryor’s influence extends far beyond the stage. His innovative and raw approach to comedy addressed social issues, racism, and personal experiences, setting a new standard for the genre.

    Pryor’s career spanned several decades, and he released numerous comedy albums, earning multiple Grammy Awards for his work. He also found success in the film industry, starring in movies such as Silver Streak, Stir Crazy, and Richard Pryor: Live on the Sunset Strip.

    24. Danny Glover

    Danny Glover

    Danny Glover, born on July 22, 1946, is an acclaimed American actor, film director, and political activist. With a career spanning several decades, Glover has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry and beyond.

    Glover gained widespread recognition for his role as Roger Murtaugh in the Lethal Weapon film series alongside Mel Gibson. His performances in films such as The Color Purple, Witness, and Predator 2 further solidified his status as a versatile actor.

    In addition to his successful acting career, Glover is known for his activism and advocacy work. He has been a vocal supporter of various social and political causes, including civil rights, labor rights, and humanitarian issues.

    25. Clifton Powell

    Clifton Powell

    Clifton Powell, born on March 16, 1956, is an American actor, producer, and comedian known for his diverse contributions to film and television. With a career spanning several decades, Powell has established himself as a versatile performer in the entertainment industry.

    Powell has appeared in numerous films, showcasing his acting prowess across various genres. Some of his notable film credits include roles in Menace II Society, Dead Presidents, and Ray. In addition to his work in film, Powell has made appearances on television shows, gaining recognition for roles in series like South Central, Roc, and House of Payne.

    ALSO READ: 66th Grammy Awards: Stellar Performance Lineup Revealed Ft Billie Eilish, Olivia Rodrigo, Bruna Boy, and More



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  • 10 Actors Who Hated Their Superhero Costumes

    10 Actors Who Hated Their Superhero Costumes

    Pretty much any job a person can take comes along with a uniform. Sometimes, it’s an actual required piece of clothing, such as a shirt with the business’ name on it. In other cases, it’s a general type of clothing — business casual, perhaps, or workwear. And, of course, there are the lucky few actors who get to collect a paycheck portraying iconic superheroes and villains on the big screen. But maybe they’re not as lucky as we think.

    It’s important to remember that no matter how convincing an actor’s performance is, the truth is that they are a human being — not a supernatural one. And human beings sweat, get itchy, and experience discomfort. While it may be easy for the viewer to forget all of this when they’re caught up in watching the final product, it’s important to think about. Honestly, imagine spending up to 12 hours in a hot, skin-tight bodysuit without a convenient way to use the bathroom. That doesn’t really sound like a dream come true, does it?

    READ MORE: 20 Great Actors Wasted in Bad Marvel Roles

    The reality is, it takes a ton of work from the actors, costume design department, and makeup artists to create the larger-than-life superheroes we see on screen. There are even times when a VFX team has to get involved to create the desired result. The experience can be so taxing on the performer, that some actors have even gone so far as to make their costume nightmares known to the public. Here are ten actors who hated their superhero movie costumes — and weren’t afraid to say so.

    Actors Who Hated Their Superhero Movie Costumes

    These actors looked great in their superhero outfits. But they were literally a pain in the butt (or other body parts) to wear.

    Unconventional Superhero Movies That Totally Missed The Mark

    Claire Epting

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  • 10 TV Actors Who Were Replaced For Controversial Reasons

    10 TV Actors Who Were Replaced For Controversial Reasons

    Over the course of a television show, we grow close to the characters on screen. We see them in a wide range of situations, learning much more about their quirks, habits, and core beliefs than we ever could from a single feature film. We cheer along with them, get angry at them, and find bits of ourselves in them. And then, sometimes, they come back as a completely different person. No, we’re not talking about TV characters with unexplained personality shifts. We’re talking about instances where the actor playing a role is completely recast with someone else. In many cases, there isn’t even an explanation — the show just continues along, as if nothing’s changed.

    Why do producers do this? One might argue that it completely takes the viewer out of the constructed world of the show, and to a degree, it certainly does. But in some instances, there seems to be no other choice. Producers can fire an actor for any number of controversies, whether it be a disagreement on the character’s creative direction or a dispute over working behavior on set. On the flip side, an actor can also sometimes get out of a contract if there’s a major issue that can’t be resolved any other way.

    While an actor’s departure from a TV show is often chalked up to “scheduling difficulties,” there are plenty of other reasons why producers may choose to recast a certain role. Below, you can learn about 10 TV actors who were replaced on their respective television shows due to controversial reasons.

    10 TV Actors Who Were Replaced For Controversial Reasons

    These actors were replaced from hit shows under clouds of controversy.

    10 Popular TV Shows That Were Almost Cancelled Too Soon

    Claire Epting

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  • The Year of the Slap: Pop culture moments in 2022

    The Year of the Slap: Pop culture moments in 2022

    Taylor Swift was up. Elon Musk was in, out, and in. Tom Cruise was back. BTS stepped aside, and so did Serena Williams, and Tom Brady too — oops, scratch that.

    But the slap? The slap was everywhere.

    Ok, so maybe it wasn’t on the level of a moon landing, or selection of a pope. But henceforth all you need say is “the slap” and people will know what you mean — that moment Will Smith smacked Chris Rock at the Oscars and a global audience said, “Wait, did that happen?” Even in the room itself — maybe especially in the room itself — there was a sense that everyone had imagined it, which helps explain why things went on as normal, for a bit.

    The pandemic was over in 2022, phew! Well, of course it wasn’t. But live entertainment pushed forward, with mask mandates dropping, and people rushing to buy things like, oh, Taylor Swift tickets!

    We’ll take any segue to mention Swift, who already had a big year in 2021, but just got bigger — heck, she broke Billboard records and then she broke Ticketmaster. (No word if she got her scarf back).

    It was a year of celebrity #MeToo cases like Harvey Weinstein (again), R. Kelly (again), Kevin Spacey, Paul Haggis, Danny Masterson. And the Johnny Depp-Amber Heard defamation trial, its every excruciating turn captured on TV.

    On the big screen, there were big comebacks. Mourning its dearly missed star, Chadwick Boseman, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” was a box office triumph. James Cameron’s “Avatar” planned a December return.

    Then there was Tom Cruise, turning 60 in ’22, just like the Rolling Stones, swooping into Cannes with his most successful movie, and showing, like those still-touring rockers, that when they tell you “The end is inevitable,” as they do in “Top Gun: Maverick,” you can always reply “Maybe so, sir, but not today.”

    Will audiences one day find Cruise – or the Stones, for that matter – too wrinkled and past the sell-by date? Maybe so, but not this year.

    Our annual, totally selective journey through a year in pop culture:

    JANUARY

    It’s GOLDEN GLOBES time. But is a Globes with no telecast, boozy celebs or red carpet a Globes at all? The embattled Hollywood Foreign Press Association, reeling from stunning failures over diversity, holds a private event and plans a comeback next year. Hey, remember the original wardrobe malfunction? Well, JANET JACKSON says she and JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE have moved on, and so should we. The New York Times buys Wordle, and we’re all thinking in five-letter words (though W-O-R-D-L-E is six, just saying.) Meanwhile, it’s a month of loss, heading off a year of loss: pioneering Black actor, director and activist SIDNEY POITIER dies at 94.

    FEBRUARY

    What would a year in pop culture be without BRITNEY? Just months after her liberation from her restrictive conservatorship, Spears is reported to have signed a mammoth book deal, but at year’s end we’re still waiting for news. RIHANNA is pregnant! TOM BRADY retires! (Stay tuned, on that one.) TAYLOR watch: JAKE GYLLENHAAL speaks out, saying he really has nothing to do with that song, that it’s about an artist’s relationship with her fans — but fans shouldn’t be cyberbullying, either.

    MARCH

    Quick, who wins Oscars this month? Well, “CODA” does, a feel-good drama with a largely deaf cast, and TROY KOTSUR becomes the first deaf actor to win an acting Oscar. Alas, all anyone can talk about is — you know. SMITH, who wins the best actor award not long after slapping Rock over a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, won’t truly address the issue until the end of the year, so keep reading. KARDASHIAN watch: Kim K is declared legally single again in her ongoing divorce with YE, the rapper formerly known as KANYE WEST. And BRADY, retired for 40 days, says, “Never mind!”

    APRIL

    It’s GRAMMY time, and JON BATISTE wins big, taking five statuettes. The musician’s huge year will later include performing at the first state dinner of the Biden administration, for French President Emmanuel Macron. The next day Macron will meet with MUSK (thanks for the segue, Monsieur le President) who begins his acquisition of TWITTER this month, leading to untold – and still unfolding – changes at the social media giant.

    MAY

    So imagine you’re sipping cocktails at the MET GALA and a musician comes sauntering through, playing the melodica — of course it’s BATISTE, because the Met Gala’s that kind of crazy party. The biggest splash of the night, though, is KARDASHIAN, on the arm of boyfriend PETE DAVIDSON, wearing the same sequined, skin tight gown MARILYN MONROE wore to sing “Happy Birthday” to JFK in 1962. In movies, “Top Gun: Maverick” opens, the highest-grossing domestic debut in CRUISE’S career, and his first to surpass $100 million on opening weekend. HARRY STYLES fans rejoice! His album, “Harry’s House,” is here.

    JUNE

    Stunning news for the global fanbase of BTS as the K-pop supergroup announces it’s taking a break to focus on members’ solo projects. On the legal front, a Virginia jury hands DEPP a victory in his very messy libel case over allegations of domestic abuse, finding that former wife HEARD defamed him in a 2018 op-ed. On a happier note, Britney gets married….

    JULY

    Only one wedding, Britney? BENNIFER has two! Maybe what happens usually stays in Vegas, but not when you have 227 million followers on Instagram. With a winking reference to being a “Sadie” (married lady) JENNIFER LOPEZ directs fans to her newsletter where she shares pics of her quickie wedding to BEN AFFLECK. “Love is beautiful,” she writes. “And it turns out love is patient.” Speaking of patience, fans of BEYONCÉ are rewarded for theirs, with the release of her long-awaited seventh studio album, “Renaissance,” her first solo album in six years.

    AUGUST

    So, we were saying …. Bennifer’s second wedding , on Affleck’s compound in Georgia, is bigger and fancier. One wedding, one split: KARDASHIAN and DAVIDSON are no longer. In other summer news, the world remembers Princess Diana, whose shocking death in a car crash happened 25 years ago, and whose life is being rehashed for a new generation in the current season of “The Crown.” And only days later, that same Netflix series will pause production briefly as a mark of respect for Queen Elizabeth II as Britain — and the world — mourn the beloved monarch, who dies at age 96 after more than 70 years on the throne.

    SEPTEMBER

    Mounting political intrigue in Europe, and by that we mean … did spit fly at the Venice premiere of “Don’t Worry Darling”? Either way the movie, directed by OLIVIA WILDE and starring her boyfriend (alleged spitter STYLES), is saddled – or blessed? – with more than its share of extracurricular drama. At the EMMYS, behold SHERYL LEE RALPH, who wins for “Abbott Elementary” and schools the crowd on the power of dreams and self-belief. “This is what believing looks like,” she says. You know what else believing looks like? Rachel Berry from “Glee” – aka LEA MICHELE – at last getting to play Fanny Brice in “Funny Girl” on Broadway. In sports, with four rueful words that resonate with working moms everywhere, SERENA WILLIAMS says she’s stepping aside from tennis, because: “Something’s got to give.”

    OCTOBER

    The second HARVEY WEINSTEIN trial opens in Los Angeles. ADIDAS drops YE, part of a cascade of companies that will sever ties with the rapper over his antisemitic and other troubling comments. The MUSK era begins at TWITTER as the world’s richest man carries a sink into the office, to “let that sink in.” HEIDI KLUM’s Halloween costume is a slimy, glistening rain worm. But before the month worms away from us, let’s cede it to SWIFT for dropping her new album, “Midnights” (Spotify’s most-streamed album in a single day), then adding seven bonus tracks, then becoming the first artist to occupy all top 10 slots on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Let THAT sink in! P.S. Celebrity divorce watch: BRADY and wife GISELE BUNDCHEN split.

    NOVEMBER

    Did we say LAST month was Taylor Swift month? Well now, millions of eager fans crowd a presale for her much-awaited Eras Tour, resulting in crashes and endless waits. Ticketmaster cancels the general sale, citing insufficient stock. Multiple state attorneys general announce investigations. Takeaway: People want Taylor Swift tickets. At the multiplex, they also want their Wakanda. “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” meets the double challenge of following up one of the biggest blockbusters in history and losing its biggest star.

    DECEMBER

    Love ‘em or hate ’em, here come HARRY and MEGHAN again, with a Netflix “documentary” being watched very, very closely by royalty across the pond. Cameron’s “AVATAR” sequel finally appears, 13 years after the original broke records. Will viewers flock to Pandora once again? And bringing the year full circle, SMITH emerges to promote his new film, “EMANCIPATION,” and hoping people will forget about … what was it? … at least enough to check out the movie.

    In this year of comebacks, will Smith’s be the biggest?

    Check back with us in 2023.

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  • The Year of the Slap: Pop culture moments in 2022

    The Year of the Slap: Pop culture moments in 2022

    Taylor Swift was up. Elon Musk was in, out, and in. Tom Cruise was back. BTS stepped aside, and so did Serena Williams, and Tom Brady too — oops, scratch that.

    But the slap? The slap was everywhere.

    Ok, so maybe it wasn’t on the level of a moon landing, or selection of a pope. But henceforth all you need say is “the slap” and people will know what you mean — that moment Will Smith smacked Chris Rock at the Oscars and a global audience said, “Wait, did that happen?” Even in the room itself — maybe especially in the room itself — there was a sense that everyone had imagined it, which helps explain why things went on as normal, for a bit.

    The pandemic was over in 2022, phew! Well, of course it wasn’t. But live entertainment pushed forward, with mask mandates dropping, and people rushing to buy things like, oh, Taylor Swift tickets!

    We’ll take any segue to mention Swift, who already had a big year in 2021, but just got bigger — heck, she broke Billboard records and then she broke Ticketmaster. (No word if she got her scarf back).

    It was a year of celebrity #MeToo cases like Harvey Weinstein (again), R. Kelly (again), Kevin Spacey, Paul Haggis, Danny Masterson. And the Johnny Depp-Amber Heard defamation trial, its every excruciating turn captured on TV.

    On the big screen, there were big comebacks. Mourning its dearly missed star, Chadwick Boseman, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” was a box office triumph. James Cameron’s “Avatar” planned a December return.

    Then there was Tom Cruise, turning 60 in ’22, just like the Rolling Stones, swooping into Cannes with his most successful movie, and showing, like those still-touring rockers, that when they tell you “The end is inevitable,” as they do in “Top Gun: Maverick,” you can always reply “Maybe so, sir, but not today.”

    Will audiences one day find Cruise – or the Stones, for that matter – too wrinkled and past the sell-by date? Maybe so, but not this year.

    Our annual, totally selective journey through a year in pop culture:

    JANUARY

    It’s GOLDEN GLOBES time. But is a Globes with no telecast, boozy celebs or red carpet a Globes at all? The embattled Hollywood Foreign Press Association, reeling from stunning failures over diversity, holds a private event and plans a comeback next year. Hey, remember the original wardrobe malfunction? Well, JANET JACKSON says she and JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE have moved on, and so should we. The New York Times buys Wordle, and we’re all thinking in five-letter words (though W-O-R-D-L-E is six, just saying.) Meanwhile, it’s a month of loss, heading off a year of loss: pioneering Black actor, director and activist SIDNEY POITIER dies at 94.

    FEBRUARY

    What would a year in pop culture be without BRITNEY? Just months after her liberation from her restrictive conservatorship, Spears is reported to have signed a mammoth book deal, but at year’s end we’re still waiting for news. RIHANNA is pregnant! TOM BRADY retires! (Stay tuned, on that one.) TAYLOR watch: JAKE GYLLENHAAL speaks out, saying he really has nothing to do with that song, that it’s about an artist’s relationship with her fans — but fans shouldn’t be cyberbullying, either.

    MARCH

    Quick, who wins Oscars this month? Well, “CODA” does, a feel-good drama with a largely deaf cast, and TROY KOTSUR becomes the first deaf actor to win an acting Oscar. Alas, all anyone can talk about is — you know. SMITH, who wins the best actor award not long after slapping Rock over a joke about his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, won’t truly address the issue until the end of the year, so keep reading. KARDASHIAN watch: Kim K is declared legally single again in her ongoing divorce with YE, the rapper formerly known as KANYE WEST. And BRADY, retired for 40 days, says, “Never mind!”

    APRIL

    It’s GRAMMY time, and JON BATISTE wins big, taking five statuettes. The musician’s huge year will later include performing at the first state dinner of the Biden administration, for French President Emmanuel Macron. The next day Macron will meet with MUSK (thanks for the segue, Monsieur le President) who begins his acquisition of TWITTER this month, leading to untold – and still unfolding – changes at the social media giant.

    MAY

    So imagine you’re sipping cocktails at the MET GALA and a musician comes sauntering through, playing the melodica — of course it’s BATISTE, because the Met Gala’s that kind of crazy party. The biggest splash of the night, though, is KARDASHIAN, on the arm of boyfriend PETE DAVIDSON, wearing the same sequined, skin tight gown MARILYN MONROE wore to sing “Happy Birthday” to JFK in 1962. In movies, “Top Gun: Maverick” opens, the highest-grossing domestic debut in CRUISE’S career, and his first to surpass $100 million on opening weekend. HARRY STYLES fans rejoice! His album, “Harry’s House,” is here.

    JUNE

    Stunning news for the global fanbase of BTS as the K-pop supergroup announces it’s taking a break to focus on members’ solo projects. On the legal front, a Virginia jury hands DEPP a victory in his very messy libel case over allegations of domestic abuse, finding that former wife HEARD defamed him in a 2018 op-ed. On a happier note, Britney gets married….

    JULY

    Only one wedding, Britney? BENNIFER has two! Maybe what happens usually stays in Vegas, but not when you have 227 million followers on Instagram. With a winking reference to being a “Sadie” (married lady) JENNIFER LOPEZ directs fans to her newsletter where she shares pics of her quickie wedding to BEN AFFLECK. “Love is beautiful,” she writes. “And it turns out love is patient.” Speaking of patience, fans of BEYONCÉ are rewarded for theirs, with the release of her long-awaited seventh studio album, “Renaissance,” her first solo album in six years.

    AUGUST

    So, we were saying …. Bennifer’s second wedding , on Affleck’s compound in Georgia, is bigger and fancier. One wedding, one split: KARDASHIAN and DAVIDSON are no longer. In other summer news, the world remembers Princess Diana, whose shocking death in a car crash happened 25 years ago, and whose life is being rehashed for a new generation in the current season of “The Crown.” And only days later, that same Netflix series will pause production briefly as a mark of respect for Queen Elizabeth II as Britain — and the world — mourn the beloved monarch, who dies at age 96 after more than 70 years on the throne.

    SEPTEMBER

    Mounting political intrigue in Europe, and by that we mean … did spit fly at the Venice premiere of “Don’t Worry Darling”? Either way the movie, directed by OLIVIA WILDE and starring her boyfriend (alleged spitter STYLES), is saddled – or blessed? – with more than its share of extracurricular drama. At the EMMYS, behold SHERYL LEE RALPH, who wins for “Abbott Elementary” and schools the crowd on the power of dreams and self-belief. “This is what believing looks like,” she says. You know what else believing looks like? Rachel Berry from “Glee” – aka LEA MICHELE – at last getting to play Fanny Brice in “Funny Girl” on Broadway. In sports, with four rueful words that resonate with working moms everywhere, SERENA WILLIAMS says she’s stepping aside from tennis, because: “Something’s got to give.”

    OCTOBER

    The second HARVEY WEINSTEIN trial opens in Los Angeles. ADIDAS drops YE, part of a cascade of companies that will sever ties with the rapper over his antisemitic and other troubling comments. The MUSK era begins at TWITTER as the world’s richest man carries a sink into the office, to “let that sink in.” HEIDI KLUM’s Halloween costume is a slimy, glistening rain worm. But before the month worms away from us, let’s cede it to SWIFT for dropping her new album, “Midnights” (Spotify’s most-streamed album in a single day), then adding seven bonus tracks, then becoming the first artist to occupy all top 10 slots on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Let THAT sink in! P.S. Celebrity divorce watch: BRADY and wife GISELE BUNDCHEN split.

    NOVEMBER

    Did we say LAST month was Taylor Swift month? Well now, millions of eager fans crowd a presale for her much-awaited Eras Tour, resulting in crashes and endless waits. Ticketmaster cancels the general sale, citing insufficient stock. Multiple state attorneys general announce investigations. Takeaway: People want Taylor Swift tickets. At the multiplex, they also want their Wakanda. “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” meets the double challenge of following up one of the biggest blockbusters in history and losing its biggest star.

    DECEMBER

    Love ‘em or hate ’em, here come HARRY and MEGHAN again, with a Netflix “documentary” being watched very, very closely by royalty across the pond. Cameron’s “AVATAR” sequel finally appears, 13 years after the original broke records. Will viewers flock to Pandora once again? And bringing the year full circle, SMITH emerges to promote his new film, “EMANCIPATION,” and hoping people will forget about … what was it? … at least enough to check out the movie.

    In this year of comebacks, will Smith’s be the biggest?

    Check back with us in 2023.

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  • ‘Wakanda Forever’ extends reign, ‘She Said’ struggles

    ‘Wakanda Forever’ extends reign, ‘She Said’ struggles

    “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” pulled in $67 million in its second weekend.

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  • ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ notches record opening for November | CNN Business

    ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ notches record opening for November | CNN Business


    New York
    CNN Business
     — 

    “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” had the major challenge of following “Black Panther,” one of the biggest blockbusters ever, and had to do so without star Chadwick Boseman, who passed away in 2020.

    Despite all of the challenges, “Wakanda Forever” notched a sizable box office opening this weekend. The Marvel movie opened to an estimated $180 million in North America, according to the film’s studio, Disney.

    The opening represents one of the best premieres of the year and makes the superhero film the highest-grossing debut ever for the month of November. The original record belonged to “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire,” which made $158 million in November 2013. The box office haul comes in around where most in Hollywood were predicting.

    The film has made $330 million globally so far.

    It’s no surprise why “Wakanda Forever” did so well this weekend.

    The film, which stars Letitia Wright and Angela Bassett as the princess and queen of the African country of Wakanda, comes from Marvel Studios — the most lucrative brand in all of Hollywood — and is the sequel to one of the most popular films of all time.

    When “Black Panther” hit theaters in February 2018, it opened to a stellar $202 million weekend. It then went on to make $1.3 billion worldwide and garnered multiple Oscar nominations, including Best Picture. The film is considered to be one of the best from the comic book genre and one of the best from Marvel.

    Audiences also likely bought a ticket to “Wakanda Forever” to see how the film and director Ryan Coogler would handle the passing of Boseman. In an interview with Empire magazine in September, Marvel Studios chief Kevin Feige said “It just felt like it was much too soon” to recast the late actor. Boseman died at age 43 from colon cancer.

    As for its critical reception, “Wakanda Forever” notched an 84% score on review site Rotten Tomatoes. Audiences also gave the film an “A” on CinemaScore.

    “‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ faced an inordinate degree of difficulty, addressing the tragic death of Chadwick Boseman,” Brian Lowry, CNN’s media critic, wrote in his review. “That the movie manages to strike that somber chord and still deliver as Marvel-style entertainment represents a major accomplishment.”

    The film’s solid opening comes at the good time for theaters and Disney.

    For theaters, the industry needed a blockbuster to help boost numbers since new, notable films have been hard to find in recent months.

    As for Disney, the media giant’s shares sank 13% Wednesday after the company reported its streaming business lost $1.4 billion last quarter, despite growing its subscriber base.

    The debut of “Wakanda Forever” will unlikely impact Disney’s stock since investors remain heavily focused on the company’s streaming endeavors. But the strong box office performance helps Disney end a bad week on a high note.

    It could also help build momentum for theaters with another potential Disney blockbuster on the horizon next month: “Avatar: The Way of Water.”

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  • In dealing with Chadwick Boseman’s death, ‘Black Panther’ makes a case for recasting | CNN

    In dealing with Chadwick Boseman’s death, ‘Black Panther’ makes a case for recasting | CNN

    Editor’s Note: The following contains spoilers about “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.”



    CNN
     — 

    “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” deftly completes the difficult task of continuing the franchise without its star, Chadwick Boseman, sensitively acknowledging his death by killing off the character of King T’Challa.

    In the process, the Marvel blockbuster also makes a case for recasting when an actor dies or opts to move on, a once-standard practice that has increasingly been sidestepped and avoided by filling roles with digital wizardry or awkwardly rewriting storylines.

    If the desire is to soften the blow for audiences, to spare them the mental leap required to accept a new performer in place of beloved or familiar one, the shift has done them a disservice. Indeed, there’s something almost insulting about treating fans as if they can’t handle the make-believe aspects of their favorite stories and adapt to embrace (or at least accept) new faces who are, after all, acting.

    Marvel Studios chief Kevin Feige addressed the dilemma, saying it was “too soon” to replace Boseman. Writing around his absence isn’t the first time that a fantasy story has been changed to accommodate a tragic loss. In the case of the most recent “Star Wars” trilogy, the producers cobbled together Princess Leia’s part using a mix of unused footage and digital trickery, seeking to avoid replacing Carrie Fisher given her 40-year affiliation with the role.

    Noting that filmmakers faced only bad options, director J.J. Abrams described the process involving Leia as “figuring out how to create the puzzle based on the pieces we had” when the final sequel, “The Rise of Skywalker,” hit theaters in 2019.

    Since then, Mark Hamill was magically de-aged for a cameo in “The Mandalorian,” and other lesser “Star Wars” players, like Grand Moff Tarkin (played by Peter Cushing, who died in 1994), have been similarly revived for different projects. Harold Ramis, meanwhile, was posthumously incorporated into “Ghostbusters: Afterlife,” although somewhat more organically, as a ghost.

    As common as the practice has become, it’s worth noting that it wasn’t always this way. When Richard Harris died after “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,” Michael Gambon seamlessly took up Dumbledore’s wand. And of course, characters like James Bond and Doctor Who regularly give way to new incarnations, with varying degrees of success, without derailing those decades-old franchises.

    To be fair, “Wakanda Forever” does as well and probably better than should have been expected under such trying circumstances. Still, there’s no denying that T’Challa’s death, and its reminder of Boseman’s, introduces a somber chord into this superhero fantasy, and that nobody would have chosen to proceed without him had the real world not intervened.

    Arguably, the puzzle analogy regarding Leia deprived the character of the enhanced part she should have occupied in “The Rise of Skywalker,” based on Harrison Ford and Hamill’s contributions to “The Force Awakens” and ‘The Last Jedi,” respectively.

    Despite improvements in digital technology, there’s also often a soullessness to these computer-generated replicants relative to what a flesh-and-blood performer can bring to the role.

    Building elements of the movie around existing material was clearly limiting, which points to what should be the bottom-line consideration: If the creators are forced to go in markedly different storytelling and plot directions than they otherwise would have, then recasting is the most logical alternative.

    That’s not to say any resolution is going to be perfect when faced with what Abrams called “the impossible question.” But the benefits of establishing a new actor in a pivotal role outweigh whatever discomfort stems from introducing a new T’Challa, just like the new Bonds and Whos and Dumbledores that came before, and does nothing to undermine honoring memories of them.

    The question might well be impossible, but the answer is right there, and rooted in screen history. It just requires trusting the audience enough to choose it.

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  • ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ Is Certified Fresh

    ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ Is Certified Fresh

    Black Panther: Wakanda Forever has a whole lot riding on it, and according to critics, the filmmakers managed to pull it off. The film is sitting at a nice 86 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. As one of the last projects in the MCU’s Phase 4, and a major sequel to a cultural landmark, expectations were high. While it’s not quite as highly ranked as its predecessor, 86 percent is really nothing to sneeze at.

    Critics have said that the film really manages to feel like a touching tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman, while also managing to forge its own identity. Another major contributor to the film’s success was the appearance of Namor, who’s apparently an excellently written villain. Tenoch Huerta has also been praised for doing one of Marvel‘s oldest characters justice in his first major appearance.

    The movie is expected to make about $365 million dollars in its opening weekend, and that Rotten Tomatoes score will definitely do it some favors in that department. Luckily, despite a meandering Phase 4 that some detractors have criticized as lacking direction, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever seems to get things back on track. In fact, the Critical Consensus section on Rotten Tomatoes calls the film: “A poignant tribute that satisfyingly moves the franchise forward, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever marks an ambitious and emotionally rewarding triumph for the MCU.”

    Despite the fact that it’s one of the best-ranked Phase 4 films so far, it’s still trailing behind Spider-Man: No Way Home and Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. In fact, it’s technically only tied for number 15 overall out of all of Marvel’s feature films currently listed on Rotten Tomatoes. Of course, there’s still time for more reviews to come in, and the number is subject to change.

    Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is set to debut in US theaters on November 11, 2022.

    How Wakanda Forever Sets Up MCU Phase Five

    Here are all the upcoming movies and shows spinning out of the Black Panther sequel.

    Cody Mcintosh

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  • ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ Cast Visited Chadwick Boseman’s Resting Place Before Starting Filming

    ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ Cast Visited Chadwick Boseman’s Resting Place Before Starting Filming

    By Sarah Curran.
    Published:

    The cast of “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” are revealing how they honoured the late Chadwick Boseman before they began shooting the highly-anticipated sequel.

    In a new cover story with Ebony, Lupita Nyong’o looks back on paying a poignant visit to Boseman’s grave alongside her co-stars.


    READ MORE:
    Rihanna Gets Emotional In Moving Music Video For ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ Single, ‘Lift Me Up’

     

    “We visited his resting place before we started filming and we had that moment as a cast,” she recalls. “We went with the new cast who hadn’t met him as well. It was our way of continuing this journey.”

    The actress continues, “It really doesn’t feel like we have anything to prove to his spirit. I feel very, very centered about how we brought him along with us. Ryan had an artist make this necklace that has Chadwick’s image on it and he wore it every day. So he’s been with us, he knows what we did.”


    READ MORE:
    Jimmy Kimmel Tries To Get ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ Cast To Spill Secrets About The Sequel

    Nyong’o adds, “He inspired what we did. We honored him unabashedly and unapologetically.”

    Directed by Ryan Coogler, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” also stars Letitia Wright, Michaela Coel, Tenoch Huerta, Martin Freeman and Angela Bassett.

    The film focuses on the leaders of Wakanda as they fight to protect their nation in the wake of King T’Challa’s death.

    Sarah Curran

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  • Chadwick Boseman didn’t read the ‘Wakanda Forever’ script before he died | CNN

    Chadwick Boseman didn’t read the ‘Wakanda Forever’ script before he died | CNN



    CNN
     — 

    Chadwick Boseman did not read the script for “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” before his death in 2020, according to the film’s director.

    Ryan Coogler told “Wakanda Forever: The Official Black Panther Podcast” that he offered Boseman a chance to read the script, but, at the time, the actor declined.

    Host Ta-Nehisi Coates had asked where Coogler was in the writing process when he found out Boseman had died.

    “I just finished it, man. My last conversation was calling him, asking him if he wanted to read it before I got notes from the studio,” he said. “That was the last time we spoke. And yeah, so I, you know, he passed maybe a couple weeks after I finished.”

    Coogler said he could “tell something was up” with the star, and could tell he was struggling with his health.

    Boseman battled colon cancer before his death but had not widely shared his diagnosis.

    “He was tired, bro. I could tell he was tired. I’d been trying to get a hold of him for a few days and Denzel [Washington] had been trying to get a hold of him too,” he said. “So I texted him and told him, ‘Hey man, Denzel said he’s been looking for you too.’ Because he just did ‘Ma Rainey’ for Denzel. So he called me. And I could tell he was laying down. We were talking. And Simone [Boseman] was with him. And (laughs) he kicks Simone out, because he told her he didn’t want her to hear nothing that could get him in trouble with the NDA. And she didn’t wanna leave him. So I could tell something was up. But they were joking and laughing.”

    On the script, Coogler said Boseman “didn’t wanna read it because he didn’t wanna get in the way of whatever notes the studio might have. So he was like, ‘It’s better if I can read it later.’ But I found later that he was too tired to read anything.”

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  • Actor Winston Duke talks

    Actor Winston Duke talks

    Actor Winston Duke talks “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” and filming without Chadwick Boseman – CBS News


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    “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” is expected to be one of the biggest movies of the year, and early reviews are calling it one of Marvel Studios’ best films ever. Actor Winston Duke, who plays M’Baku in the movie, joins “CBS Mornings” to discuss the project and filming it without late actor Chadwick Boseman.

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  • 2019 Oscars: Black Panther is the first superhero movie to be nominated for an Academy Award; Gets 7 nominations today

    2019 Oscars: Black Panther is the first superhero movie to be nominated for an Academy Award; Gets 7 nominations today

    “Black Panther,” which struck a cultural chord for having a predominantly black cast, is now an Oscar nominee for best picture, making it the first comic book adaptation to be recognized for the category by the Academy. Directed by Ryan Coogler, the film also racked up six other nominations, including best original score and several other technical awards Tuesday. 

    The Marvel hit follows T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman) as he returns home to take his place as leader of the fictional African country Wakanda, following the death of this father. Wakanda is wealthy, technologically advanced and one that has never been colonized.

    The film made its mark for being the first mega-budget movie to feature a black lead character, a black director, black writers and mostly black cast. Fans in Africa also lauded “Black Panther” for its positive portrayal of the continent. 

    “I remember being young and watching, consumed with pop culture,” Coogler told “CBS This Morning” co-host Gayle King. “What I noticed was none of their worlds like my world. When I was growing up in the East Bay area in Oakland, my family, my friends, everyone was black. What I longed for was stories that looked to be my world.” 


    Director Ryan Coogler discusses blockbuster hit “Black Panther”

    02:49

    Despite sky-high expectations, Coogler said his first priority was to make a good movie. “First things first, it’s got to work as a movie,” he said.

    And that it did. Black Panther is one of the highest-grossing movies of all-time, accumulating $1.3 billion worldwide and plans for a sequel are already underway. 

    Lupita Nyong’o was among the cast members who celebrated the nominations on Twitter.

    But does it actually have a chance to win best picture? CNET’s Richard Trenholm argues it has a legitimate shot.

    “Like BlacKkKlansman and Green Book, it tackles timely and relevant questions of race and prejudice. Where those other films examine the subject through a historical lens, Black Panther looks at the here and now,” Trenholm writes. 

    “So if Academy voters want timely subtext and positive representation as well as a thrilling story and cinematic verve, it’s all there between the punches and one-liners.”

    In addition to best picture, Coogler’s movie was nominated for best costume design, original score, original song, production design, sound edition and sound mixing. 

    The 91st Academy Awards will air live on Sunday, February 24.

    Christopher Brito


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    Christopher Brito is a social media producer and trending writer for CBS News, focusing on sports and stories that involve issues of race and culture.

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  • Rihanna’s “Lift Me Up” Is A Return to Some of Her Most Iconic Ballads

    Rihanna’s “Lift Me Up” Is A Return to Some of Her Most Iconic Ballads

    Gradually getting the masses accustomed to her presence among us as a musician again (as opposed to just another beauty and fashion mogul), Rihanna has decided to “reintroduce” herself as only Rihanna could: by releasing a song for the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Soundtrack. It feels like a pointed initiation of her upcoming appearance at the Super Bowl Halftime Show. Arguably the most pressure-filled venue (and, for Ri, the most hypocritical one) a person could choose for a comeback. But it seems Rihanna also wants to remind people of her prowess not just as a performer, but as a vocalist before taking that stage. Thus, she’s given her listeners “Lift Me Up,” co-written by Ludwig Göransson, Ryan Coogler (who also directed both Black Panther movies) and Tems.

    The song was penned as a tribute with Chadwick Boseman in mind, a fact that becomes quickly apparent a few verses in. So, of course, it could be nothing other than a ballad, even though many were likely hoping for Rihanna’s first comeback single to be one of her proverbial “bangers.” And yes, considering how “familiar” “Lift Me Up” sounds, it’s fitting that Ri’s last solo effort to chart was the belted-out ballad, “Love on the Brain.” Released as the final single from 2016’s Anti, it showcased Rihanna’s vocals at their rawest and most intense. Just as so many of her other indelible ballads have—including “Stay” (from Unapologetic), “We All Want Love” (from Talk That Talk), “California King Bed” (from Loud), “Cold Case Love” (from Rated R), “Cry” (from Good Girl Gone Bad), “Unfaithful” (from A Girl Like Me) and “The Last Time” (from Music of the Sun).

    Building on her long history of nailing this particular style of song while making it all her own (hear also: “Higher”), the single’s album artwork perhaps deliberately harkens back to Ri’s earlier albums, Music of the Sun and A Girl Like Me, in that it’s a close-up shot of her face. Unlike the expressions in the aforementioned albums, however, there is an undeniable tone of somberness to this one, confirmed by the image being in black-and-white. And this is the first instance of one of her ballads being an “homage” track rather than a pining number that addresses love lost or otherwise tainted.

    Because of Boseman’s role as King T’Challa, his influence on Black culture markedly escalated at the time of Black Panther’s release in 2018. Just two years later, he would die of colon cancer at the age of forty-three (adding to the general sentiment of, “Damn, this is a really shitty year for Black people” that occurred in 2020). In the span of his seventeen-year career (which began with a recurring role on All My Children), Boseman became an almost god-like figure when he stepped into the part of Black Panther, first appearing as King T’Challa in Captain America: Civil War, which, incidentally, came out the same year as Anti. The fact that Wakanda Forever pays so much of an homage to him with a song like this is yet another testament to what Boseman playing this part meant (and still means) to a great many people. And Rihanna does plenty of justice to the fallen king with her moving lyrics and delivery. Bittersweetly urging, “Burning in a hopeless dream/Hold me when you go to sleep/Keep me in the warmth of your love/When you depart, keep me safe/Safe and sound.” The subjects of Wakanda are surely asking the same of their erstwhile king.

    In the second verse, Rihanna contrasts the previous imagery of “burning” with, “Drowning in an endless sea/Take some time and stay with me.” There’s that word she so loves to use in a ballad: “stay.” And yes, parting is such unwanted sorrow. With many who do it, like Boseman, not actually desiring to. The rest of the song’s lyrical composition is fairly simple, but then, that’s the point. For, to reiterate what so many have said in a varying form before her, including The Beatles and Madonna, simplicity is key. Which is why Rihanna insists straightforwardly, “We need light/We need love.” Delivered with a powerful earnestness, the song is even one to rival what Beyoncé did with “Be Alive” for the King Richard Soundtrack.

    “Born Again” (which sounds like it could be the sequel to Lana Del Rey’s “Born to Die”), a pertinent title for Rihanna’s own imminent rebirth as a recording artist, will also be released from the soundtrack to further lay the groundwork for the singer-turned-entrepreneur’s musical return. And while most wouldn’t be able to live up to the pressure surrounding such a long hiatus, it seems the break has only sharpened Rihanna’s skills and refreshed her vigor for “the craft.” Given her time to pause and reflect… which should prove to the “Powers That Be” that “allowing” people time to recuperate from overworking isn’t a bane to capitalism, especially not in Rihanna’s case.

    Genna Rivieccio

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  • “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” cast pays tribute to Chadwick Boseman at film’s premiere

    “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” cast pays tribute to Chadwick Boseman at film’s premiere

    Chadwick Boseman’s spirit lived on Wednesday when the cast of Marvel’s “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” walked the purple carpet for the world premiere, paying tribute to their late co-star. 

    The actor played the lead role of King T’Challa in 2018’s “Black Panther” and appeared in several other Marvel films. But Boseman died in 2020 at the age of 43 after a four-year battle with colon cancer that he had kept private. 

    Letitia Wright, who plays T’Challa’s sister, Princess Shuri, honored Boseman by wearing a black pantsuit with jeweled details around her shoulders, mimicking his look from the 2018 premiere of “Black Panther.”

    blackpanther.png
    Letitia Wright (left) posing like Chadwick Boseman (right) from the 2018 Black Panther movie premiere.

    Getty Images


    Actress Janeshia Adams-Ginyard, who plays a member of the elite Wakandan warrior group the Dora Milaje, covered her entire body in paint, which included an illustration of Boseman’s face on her back.

    Ryan Coogler, the director and co-writer of both Black Panther movies, wore a chain that had a pendant emblazoned with a picture of Boseman.

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    Ryan Coogler rocks gold chain with Boseman’s face around his neck at “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” movie premiere.

    Getty Images


    Lupita Nyong’o, who plays Nakia in the Black Panther franchise, told The Associated Press at the premiere that she was “relieved” when Coogler showed her the script, as she wasn’t sure how they would handle the death of the actor. 

    “I had been dreading it,” she said. “And then when he walked me through it, I was like, ‘Oh, phew, we don’t have to pretend like we are not in grief, you know? We got to use our grief and we got to just add juice to Chadwick’s legacy.”

    Angela Bassett, who plays T’Challa’s mother, Queen Ramonda, said at the premiere that she and the entire cast reflected on Boseman’s absence while they were filming the movie. 

    “There’s such an energy in the room with the people, with the script, with our director, with our Chadwick, with his light, that we had to carry on,” she told The Associated Press. “We had to sit down for a minute, but, you know, we weren’t going to stay down.”

    Singer-songwriter Rihanna released a snippet of her single titled “Lift Me Up” for the upcoming movie earlier this week, which was her first new song in several years and also paid tribute to Boseman.

    “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” will debut in U.S. theaters on Nov. 11.

    Greg Cannella


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    Greg Cannella is a social media producer and writer for CBS News, focused on trending stories.

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