8 MCU Characters John Boyega Should Play

Following his latest remarks, it might be advantageous for Marvel Studios to incorporate John Boyega into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as one of these renowned Marvel Comics characters. Previously, British actor and producer John Boyega had dismissed any speculation about him joining the MCU, expressing concerns over the lack of original ideas in Marvel films (as reported by Men’s Health). However, recent discussions with Marvel chief Kevin Feige could signal a potential shift in his stance, potentially paving the way for Boyega to become part of the MCU.

At this year’s C2E2, I myself, John Boyega, hinted at talks with Marvel Studios regarding a potential role in the MCU. Initially, I mentioned that there seemed to be no space for me, but my recent comments have sparked fresh discussions about potential characters I could embody in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. I did express who I’d prefer to portray, yet it doesn’t guarantee that Marvel will grant my wish and bring my X-Men debut to life. There are numerous iconic Marvel Comics characters for which I would be an ideal fit.

8. Tyrone Johnson’s Cloak

Tyrone Johnson Debuted In Marvel Comics In 1982’s Peter Parker, The Spectacular Spider-Man #64

Ty Johnson, who was previously played by Tandy Bowen in Marvel Television’s Cloak & Dagger and Runaways series, might not be tied to the main Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) continuity. This means there’s a chance for a fresh actor to step into the role of the Darkforce-wielding Cloak within the MCU. John Boyega would make an excellent fit for this character, even though Johnson is usually portrayed as a teenager in Marvel Comics. Boyega could bring to life an older and battle-hardened version of the mystical crusader in the MCU.

In his acting career, John Boyega has often played down-to-earth characters, such as those in “Small Axe,” “Imperial Dreams,” and “Detroit.” This versatility makes him an ideal fit for the gritty narratives of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). With the introduction of a fresh dynamic in New York City’s MCU landscape through “Daredevil: Born Again,” it would be exciting to introduce new iterations of Cloak and Dagger. One intriguing possibility is that they could join Daredevil’s forces. John Boyega as Cloak would add a powerful presence in the series, operating covertly in a New York City under the control of a Kingpin, embodying the Demon of Darkness.

7. Nick Fury Jr.

Nick Fury Jr. Debuted In Marvel Comics In 2012’s Battle Scars #1

Samuel L. Jackson has played the character of Nick Fury, who is the ex-director of SHIELD and the driving force behind the Avengers’ creation, since 2008’s “Iron Man.” However, due to recent developments, it appears that his story in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) might be reaching its conclusion.

In the upcoming series “Secret Invasion” and “The Marvels,” Fury’s appearances didn’t seem to go down well with fans. Yet, there is a possibility of someone new taking over from him, possibly even his yet-to-be-seen son, Nick Fury Jr., also known as Marcus Johnson. If this were to happen, it would be an intriguing role for John Boyega in the MCU, as he could continue the legacy of one of the central human characters in the universe.

Nick Fury’s Live-Action MCU Project Year Role
Iron Man 2008 Cameo
Iron Man 2 2010 Supporting Cast
Thor 2011 Cameo
Captain America: The First Avenger 2011 Cameo
The Avengers 2012 Main Cast
Captain America: The Winter Soldier 2014 Supporting Cast
Avengers: Age of Ultron 2015 Cameo
Avengers: Infinity War 2018 Cameo
Captain Marvel 2019 Main Cast
Avengers: Endgame 2019 Cameo
Spider-Man: Far From Home 2019 Supporting Cast
Secret Invasion 2023 Lead
The Marvels 2023 Supporting Cast

It would be thrilling if John Boyega were to make his Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) debut as Nick Fury Jr., taking over from his father in the comics and potentially spearheading a new Secret Avengers team. Given Boyega’s recognition, charisma, acting prowess, and likeability, he seems well-suited to step into this role. This move could open up possibilities for portraying previously untold Nick Fury stories within the MCU, and even offer a more impactful retelling of the Secret Invasion storyline.

6. Hobie Brown’s Spider-Punk

Hobart “Hobie” Brown Debuted In Marvel Comics In 2015’s The Amazing Spider-Man #10

In Sony’s animated “Spider-Verse” series, Daniel Kaluuya provides the voice for Spider-Punk’s character Hobie Brown. However, since Kaluuya has made his mark in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as W’Kabi in “Black Panther,” there’s a possibility that another actor could step into the role of live-action Spider-Punk.

Introducing this rebellious and transformative version of Spider-Man within the multiversal MCU adventure would be thrilling. John Boyega, for instance, could potentially replace Kaluuya in a live-action setting. Such casting might hint at one of Marvel Comics’ most anticipated events making its way into the MCU.

1. In the 2018 Marvel Comics series “Spider-Geddon,” the character Spider-Punk played a significant part. This storyline featured an army of various Spider-Characters battling Morlun and his Inheritors. Morlun has been proposed as a potential main villain for both “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” and Tom Holland’s upcoming trilogy, so it would be exciting to see him collaborate with other Spider-Heroes if this narrative is translated to screen.

2. Actor John Boyega shares the same charisma, quick wit, satirical edge, and humor as Daniel Kaluuya. It would be fantastic to see Boyega bring Kaluuya’s animated Spider-Man hero to life in a live-action adaptation.

5. Jericho Drumm’s Doctor Voodoo

Jericho Drumm Debuted In Marvel Comics In 1973’s Strange Tales #169

In my humble opinion as a film critic, Mark Anthony Brighton’s portrayal of Daniel Drumm in Marvel’s 2016 blockbuster “Doctor Strange” left quite an impression, fueling whispers that his more formidable brother, Jericho Drumm, might soon join the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Alas, that has yet to happen. But if the right stars align, I believe John Boyega could be the ideal choice for bringing Brother Voodoo, later Doctor Voodoo, to life in the MCU.

You see, Drumm’s profound mystical wisdom makes him one of Marvel’s most potent heroes, so much so that he even assumed the role of the Sorcerer Supreme from Stephen Strange back in 2009. Such a casting for Boyega would undoubtedly set his MCU career on a brilliant trajectory.

Marvel Studios has been focusing more on the mystical and supernatural aspects of the MCU lately, introducing characters like Werewolf by Night, Man-Thing, Blade, Moon Knight, and others. Jericho Drumm seems to be a perfect fit for this part of the franchise, and John Boyega has previous experience with unique characters, as seen in films such as Pacific Rim Uprising and They Cloned Tyrone. Since Benedict Cumberbatch’s future as Doctor Strange beyond MCU’s Phase 6 is uncertain, having someone like John Boyega potentially step into the role of the Sorcerer Supreme could be an exciting development for the franchise.

4. Adam Brashear’s Blue Marvel

Adam Brashear Debuted In Marvel Comics In 2008’s Adam: Legend Of The Blue Marvel #1

Although Adam Brashear first appeared in Marvel Comics in 2008, it was later established that he had been active as a hero in the 1960s. After a lab accident turned his body into an enhanced antimatter reactor, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom. However, his resignation was requested following public revelation of his African American heritage. This compelling and significant tale should be brought to life in the MCU, and John Boyega seems ideally suited to lead this story.

Throughout his acting career, John Boyega has portrayed various characters that emphasize and illuminate the Black experience. It’s fitting that in the Marvel Comics universe, the character of the Blue Marvel might be the ideal choice to convey these themes. Adam Brashear, who reappeared as a main superhero in 2010, can potentially have his storyline intertwined with the MCU’s entire history in much the same way that Isaiah Bradley was later revealed to be a Black Captain America from the 1950s. If cast as the Blue Marvel, John Boyega could take on a role of significant importance.

3. T’Challa’s Black Panther Variant

T’Challa Debuted In Marvel Comics In 1966’s Fantastic Four #52

As a movie critic, I found myself pondering the poignant absence of Chadwick Boseman’s character, T’Challa, in Ryan Coogler’s 2022 sequel, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.” Some viewers expressed their longing for T’Challa, and whispers have grown louder about Marvel Studios potentially employing the multiverse to resurrect this iconic character. Recasting T’Challa in the MCU is a daunting task, as it requires finding an actor capable of embodying Boseman’s legacy. John Boyega could be the ideal candidate for such a challenge.

T’Challa’s Live-Action MCU Project Year Role
Captain America: Civil War 2016 Supporting Cast
Black Panther 2018 Lead
Avengers: Infinity War 2018 Main Cast
Avengers: Endgame 2019 Supporting Cast
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever 2022 Posthumous Cameo

Just like Blue Marvel, taking on the role of T’Challa in the MCU provides John Boyega an opportunity to honor his African heritage by embodying one of history’s most iconic Black superheroes. Previously portraying characters of African descent, such as Ugwu in Half of a Yellow Sun and King Ghezo in The Woman King, has given Boyega the necessary experience to play T’Challa effectively. It’s even plausible that Boyega could be introduced as an adult version of T’Challa’s son, Toussaint, who made his debut in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever; however, it would be thrilling to see him portray the Black Panther himself.

2. Luke Cage

Luke Cage Debuted In Marvel Comics In 1972’s Luke Cage, Hero For Hire #1

As a die-hard Marvel fan, I can’t help but reflect on the captivating portrayal of Luke Cage by Mike Colter in the Defenders Saga on Netflix. However, recent rumors suggest that Colter might not reprise his role, and some criticisms about his characterization have left many fans, including myself, questioning whether Marvel Studios will opt to recast him.

In the comic books, Luke Cage is a pivotal figure, eventually rising to lead the Avengers. It’s challenging to envision Colter’s stoic and brooding Luke Cage taking on this leadership role. But if we consider an actor of John Boyega’s caliber stepping into the scene, he could infuse new vitality, passion, and intensity into the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Power Man, making him a fitting choice for the Avengers’ future leader.

John Boyega possesses the right body type, charisma, acting abilities, and stardom to bring a fresh portrayal of Luke Cage. Since the series “Daredevil: Born Again” is likely to delve deeper into the tales of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Defenders Saga, it seems crucial that Luke Cage appears in “Born Again” season 2 or another street-level story. If Mike Colter doesn’t reprise his role – considering changes might be made to the character to fit better within the MCU – John Boyega would make an excellent choice as his replacement. However, it’s worth noting that Boyega has previously expressed interest in playing a different character in the MCU.

1. Lucas Bishop

Lucas Bishop Debuted In Marvel Comics In 1991’s The Uncanny X-Men #282

At the C2E2 event, John Boyega was inquired about which Marvel character he’d like to portray within the MCU, and he casually mentioned, “I’d prefer playing Bishop.” This refers to Lucas Bishop, a mutant from Marvel Comics who can travel through time. He first interacted with the X-Men after moving from a future plagued by destruction into the past. Bishop is pivotal in several major Marvel Comics narratives like the “Age of Apocalypse” and “Messiah Complex,” so if he were to join the MCU, he could significantly influence the development of mutants. This makes John Boyega’s wish to play Bishop all the more intriguing.

Bishop, a key member of the X-Men team, was often overlooked in the 20th Century Fox’s X-Men series that spanned over two decades. Although Omar Sy played Bishop in X-Men: Days of Future Past, his screen time was limited. It would be exciting to see John Boyega step into this role and elevate Bishop’s significance within the storyline. The upcoming Marvel Studios’ X-Men reboot and its spinoffs could greatly benefit from introducing Bishop, especially if John Boyega is cast in the part. Therefore, it would be advantageous for Marvel to consider bringing Bishop into the picture.

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2025-04-21 21:11