The Marvel Cinematic Universe never takes a break from the rumor mill, and this time, speculation is surrounding someBlack Panther: Wakanda Forevercasting.
Reported byMurphy’s Multiverse, Marvel is rumored to have cast Mexican actor Mabel Cadena in the role of Namora for theBlack Panthersequel. It was previously revealed that Marvel was looking for Mexican actors to play two Mayan warriors, with the alias’ Zyanya and Cadmael, who were believed to be the roles of Namora and the barbarian warlord Attuma.
News of Cadena’s casting comes one month after it was reported that Tenoch Huerta was rumored to be up for the role of Namor, who would be joining Ryan Coogler’s production.
Who is Namora in Marvel Comics?
Aquaria Neptunia, or ‘Namora’, is the daughter of an Atlantean man and a surface woman, nicknamed after her cousin ‘Namor’. Namora moved to Atlantis with her father when she was very young and saved Namor from a torpedo tube which subsequently earned her cousin’s respect. Namora debuted in 1947’sMarvel Mystery Comics#82, showcasing her super strength and speed. Namora is also known as one of Jimmy Woo’s Agents of Atlantis.
Black Panther 2plot details recently uncovered the shared history between Wakanda and Atlantis, pertaining to hidden civilizations and advanced technology. As the former feared that outsiders would exploit their technology, Atlantis was also wary of surface folk who would attack their city. These concerns eventually lead to a clash between the two races.
DuringAvengers: Endgame, the Dora Milaje warrior Okoye briefly mentioned news of an underwater earthquake, which established Wakanda’s connection to Atlantis earlier on. There are currently no further plot details pertaining toBlack Panther 2, but we can definitely expect to see the two races meet.
Who is Mabel Cadena?
Mexican actor Cadena is known for her roles in Netflix’sDance of the 41and Amazon Prime’sHernán.Studying at the acting school CasAzul Artes Escénicas Argos, Cadena later moved on to star in a number of Spanish-speaking productions.
This will be Cadena’s MCU debut, joining a host of other characters making their mark in the universe during Phase 4. The actor’s role inBlack Panther 2could be our introduction to the character before she continues her portrayal in the rumoredAgents of Atlantisproject.
