10 Mind-Blowing Facts You Didn't Know About Black Panther

3. He's Been Replaced More Than Once Before

black panther
Marvel Comics

Before the release of the Black Panther film, the average person knew very little about T'Challa's family. For years, the king of Wakanda was portrayed as a lone wolf, who protected his country by any means necessary, but this is only half true.

While T'Challa is usually seen working alone, his family plays a huge role in his adventures, and no one plays a bigger role than his sister Shuri. Not only is Shuri a dynamic character, but since her comic book debut in 2005 she has been an integral part of the Black Panther comics, and even held the mantle of Black Panther herself at one point.

After being attacked by a group of super villains known as The Cabal, T'Challa is left comatose. With Wakanda's primary protector left unconscious, its Queen Ororo nominates Shuri as the next Back Panther. Determined to obtain the mantle, Shuri completes the various trials in hopes of becoming Wakanda's new guardian.

Rejected early on by the panther god Bass, Shuri initially gains no powers from the heart shaped herb. Only through the defeat of Morlun, a villain threatening Wakanda, does she gain the respect of the panther god, and the powers of the Black Panther.

Contributor

I am a veteran of the U.S. Army, comic book fanatic and part-time super hero. Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY.