All 8 Black Panthers in the MCU (So Far)

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From its inception, Wakanda has been an integral part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The element Vibranium, mined from this African nation, is pivotal in crafting Steve Rogers’ shield, which he uses against the Red Skull in Captain America: The First Avenger. Later on, the Avengers encounter Ulysses Klaue, who harbors animosity towards Wakanda and its people. Initially, this seems odd since Wakanda appears to be just a farming nation. However, Captain America: Civil War offers a glimpse into Wakanda’s technologically advanced secrets, introducing the Black Panther to the world during the conflict over the Sokovia Accords.

Following T’Challa’s confrontation with Captain America and his allies, the two “Black Panther” films explore the captivating history of Wakanda, detailing how the main character obtained his powers. The upcoming Marvel Studios endeavor, titled “Eyes of Wakanda“, takes this exploration a step further by chronicling the exploits of War Dogs across various time periods, each serving under a distinct ruler. Here is a list of all eight Black Panthers that the Marvel Cinematic Universe has introduced thus far.

1) Bashenga

In awe, I recall the captivating beginning of the groundbreaking film, Black Panther. Rather than delving into Wakanda’s history, it takes us back thousands of years, painting a picture of tribal conflicts over the miraculous substance, vibranium, which they had discovered held transformative powers. In the midst of this strife, the divine figure, Bast, communicated with but one man, Bashenga. Guided by her, he discovered the Heart-Shaped Herb and used his newfound strength to bring unity among the Wakandans, thereby ascending as their first monarch and forging the Black Panther legacy.

2) T’Chaka

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s debut of T’Chaka in “Civil War,” he is not yet the Black Panther, which could explain why he perishes during the blast at the Vienna International Centre. However, it’s worth noting that he did once bear the mantle, as depicted in the movie “Black Panther,” particularly when he encounters his brother, N’Jobu, during a flashback sequence. T’Chaka ultimately takes his brother’s life due to treachery against Wakanda, making his rule a complex and intriguing one.

3) T’Challa

As the esteemed successor to King T’Chaka, I found myself donning the mantle of Wakanda’s protector, a role that came with great responsibility and peril. Upon assuming the throne, it seemed as if the clouds of adversity were never far behind, as my people constantly faced threats both within and beyond our borders.

Sadly, this transition was short-lived, as the cunning Killmonger seized the opportunity to seize the throne. With malicious intent, he sought to exploit Wakanda’s advanced technology for global destruction. Yet, even in the face of such darkness, a greater evil loomed on the horizon: Thanos, who laid waste to our once-peaceful nation while hunting for the Infinity Stones. In a cruel twist of fate, I was reduced to dust under his merciless assault.

But the indomitable spirit of the Black Panther could not be vanquished so easily. Rising from the ashes, I returned stronger than ever and stood resolute in defense of my people. Though my journey ended tragically, I will forever remain a symbol of hope and resilience for the citizens of Wakanda.

4) What If…?‘s T’Challa

In an alternate universe, T’Challa never partakes of the Heart-Shaped Herb, yet he still transforms into a hero. The first season of “What If…?” presents an episode where Yondu Udonta kidnaps the prince in the 1980s as he searches for Peter Quill. T’Challa eventually assumes the role of Star-Lord and rescues Peter from his father, Ego, who aims to conquer the galaxy. With a significant victory under his belt, Star-Lord is summoned by the Watcher to join the Guardians of the Multiverse and assists in defeating Ultron.

5) Killmonger

Following the untimely demise of his father, N’Jobu, at a tender age, Erik Stevens swears vengeance against Wakanda, a nation he believes abandons black people worldwide. Transforming into the ruthless mercenary Killmonger, he manages to infiltrate his father’s ancestral home and ultimately defeats T’Challa in a fierce struggle for the throne. Although his reign is short-lived, Killmonger leaves an indelible mark on T’Challa by making him realize that being a king involves more than merely protecting one’s own territory.

6) What If…?‘s Killmonger

In the “What If… Killmonger Saved Tony Stark?” episode of What If…?, it’s Killmonger who winds up with a different storyline. Instead of Tony Stark rescuing him, it’s the other way around. After freeing the billionaire from the Ten Rings, Killmonger leverages his technology to seize control over Wakanda and assumes the mantle of Black Panther. However, the Watcher enlists him in their group due to Ultron causing a crisis by gathering the Infinity Stones. At one point, Killmonger attempts to snatch the gems for himself, but his attempt is thwarted, and he returns to his original reality.

7) Shuri

In the aftermath of T’Challa’s passing, his sister Shuri is deeply affected, struggling to find a means to bring him back. Yet, her sorrow is cut short as Namor launches an attack on Wakanda, compelling Shuri to develop an artificial Heart-Shaped Herb and become the new Black Panther. Despite losing the battle, Namor doesn’t succeed in conquering Wakanda, and Shuri’s heroic character elects to continue safeguarding her homeland without assuming its rule.

8) Eyes of Wakanda‘s Black Panther

In Episode 4 titled “The Last Panther”, the series Eyes of Wakanda primarily centers around the War Dogs, yet introduces a Black Panther into the mix. The queen from the future Wakanda visits the past to prevent an invasion by the Horde, and enlists the help of Prince Tafari and Kuda. Upon her return to her time, she resumes her battle against the extraterrestrial beings, ensuring the safety of Wakanda in the future.

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2025-08-04 19:43