Marvel's new ground-breaking hit, Black Panther, is set in the breathtaking kingdom of Wakanda and showcases infamous comic book characters brought to life in some of the most extravagant costumes.
It's amazing to see the difference of what the iconic cast look like in real life and in the film. Take a peak to see the transformation of your favorite characters.
Lupita Nyong’o-Nakia, The Warrior Goddess
Lupita Nyong’o-Nakia, The Warrior Goddess Every superhero has something in common, they all have either someone or something to fight for. In Black Panther's story, the lovely Nakia is one in a million.
We learn pretty early on in the film that the pair had been in love at one point, however, life got in the way. Throughout the movie, we see the triumphs reuniting them to fight for a greater cause other than their own personal romance.
Lupita Nyong’o In Real Life
The Mexican-Kenyan actress has already made her mark in her short Hollywood career, most notably, winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the historical drama, 12 Years a Slave.
In addition to acting, Nyong’o is a big supporter of historic preservation. She is avid about preventing sexual harassment and fighting for animal rights.
Letitia Wright-Black Panther's Step- Sister, Shuri
One of the biggest strengths of the movie, Black Panther is the way it builds on what we already know about T’Challa and goes into detail by introducing many of his family members; most notably, his little step-sister Shuri.
The young woman, played by Letitia Wright, is known for her sense of humor in the movie and is the technician that brings T’Challa’s “vibranium” suit to life.
Letitia Wright In Real Life
You may never guess, but Letitia Wright was actually born in Guyana, before moving to the U.K. with her family.
The young British actress has landed many great roles, from Top Boy, Humans and Black Mirror before her big debut in Black Panther. The actress opened up to Vanity Fair about her depression and took a break from acting back in2015, she has made quite the comeback though!
Daniel Kaluuya – W’Kabi
In Black Panther, Kaluuya plays the role of W’Kabi, a loyal advisor to the King of Wakanda.
His loyalty is specifically to the King, not specifically to the protagonist of the movie.
Daniel Kaluuya In Real Life
It has been an incredible couple of years for Daniel Kaluuya.
The British actor made his first appearance on screen with his role in an episode of Black Mirror. He received his first international recognition while being nominated for Best Actor in the Academy for his role in the horror Get Out.
Danai Gurira- The Fierce, Okoye
As the fierce leader of the all-female royal guards, Okoye (played by Gurira) demonstrates the epitome of royalty and is even prepared to sacrifice her relationship with her love interest so that the Kingdom of Wakanda can survive.
Danai Gurira In Real Life
Danai Gurira is a Zimbabwean-American actress also known for her star role as Michonne in The Walking Dead.
Not only is she talented and famous, she is also quite the activist. She is a co-founder of Almasi Arts Inc. organization which aims to promote the arts in Zimbabwe. She also founded the Love Our Girls organization.
Forest Whitaker- Zuri
Forest Whitake, playing the star role of Zuri, acts as Black Panther's personal guide along the way.
He also adds some mystery, hiding some crucial details from his family’s past.
Forest Whitaker In Real Life
The infamous Forest Whitaker seems to be in just about everything these days.
From his recent appearances in Arrival and Rogue One, to his most significant recognition, Academy Award winner for Best Actor for his incredible performance as Idi Amin in the critically acclaimed The Last King of Scotland.
Chadwick Boseman – T’Challa/Black Panther
We first see the superhero, with the name of T’Challa, in Captain America: Civil War.
In his own personal spin-off movie, we see the character get fleshed out in the most intense way: returning to Wakanda, where he will take the throne and become King of his home-land.
Chadwick Boseman In Real Life
Chadwick Boseman has already established himself as an extraordinary actor, portraying numerous real-life personalities such as Jackie Robinson in 42 and James Brown in Get On Up. Fun, fact- Boseman is a dedicated Christian, and allegedly prayed to be in the movie Black Panther before he was cast.
Winston Duke – M’Baku, The Warrior
Winston Duke plays one of the warrior-tribesmen living up in the mountains of Wakanda. M'Baku, known for his loud and aggressive personality, challenges the protagonsit (T’Challa) to the throne.
Despite putting up quite the fight, M'Baku ends up losing the battle. Stay tuned because he makes up for it in the third act of the movie!