Before Ryan Coogler’s streaming release in February Black Panther: Wakanda Forever On Disney+, a deleted scene from the movie made waves online. Previous deleted scenes expanded the scope and meaning of the sequel, showcasing the moment of building the Riri Williams/Shuri relationship prior to their escape from Tallocan City and the Everett Ross subplot after he infiltrated the NSA for Riri’s confiscated laptop. However, this latest clip provided by IGN hints at the internal power struggles at play after Queen Ramonda’s death with border tribe member Okoye (Danny Gurira) was positioned as the new potential ruler of Wakanda.
The approximately two-minute video clip is titled “The Border’s Daughter”. Okoye is known as the highly skilled former general of the Dora Milaje – the elite all-women warrior group – and a fierce loyalist to the Wakandan throne. She is seen conversing with her uncle in a conversation that quickly turns into a daunting choice for the warrior regarding future leadership of Wakanda. The scene is set after the death of Queen Ramonda in which “the elders are drawing straws to decide who will have the honor of being assassinated by Namor next.” The scene builds to an urgency for Wakanda to choose their next leader in the aftermath of Namor’s brutal attack on their nation.
Her uncle prefers a traditional approach, stating that the Warrior Falls ritual should be invoked as Okoye comes forward to represent the Border Tribe in the challenge. Okoye’s impressive fighting skills and the support she gets from the people – as mentioned by her uncle – make her an excellent candidate to win the Warrior Falls ritual that determines the lineage to the throne of Wakanda and the succession to the Black Panther. Okoye was shocked by this suggestion, rightly questioning Shuri’s response as heir to the throne. Uncle Okoye’s last advice is to lie down and take up the mantle of queen after the dust of war settles in their country.
All additional content—including deleted scenes, a gag reel, and commentary by Ryan Coogler, Robert Cole, and Autumn Dorald Arcapaw—will be available when the February 7 collection of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever on Blu-Ray, 4K Ultra HD, and DVD.
Daniel Kaluuya could make a return as W’Kabi in future MCU installments
Daniel Kaluuya has been instrumental in bringing exceptional films to life in 2022, which includes his lead role in Jordan Peele’s extraterrestrial horror. No and his continued foray into production with the satirical Black Church feature Honk to Jesus. Save your soul. However, the Oscar-winning star was notably absent from last year’s Black Panther movie as he played W’Kabi – Okoye’s husband and confidante to Chadwick Boseman’s King T’Challa – in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Last year, Kaluuya confirmed his lost presence in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever It was due to a scheduling conflict No But he felt his absence was “the best part of the story.” [and] the movie.”
In the same interview with Variety last year, Kaluya also lightly avoided giving a straight answer when asked about his possible return to Marvel. “You know I can’t tell you! You’re supposed to start with that!” Kaluuya laughed. Although the star has neither confirmed nor denied his future participation in the Black Panther series, the sequel provides Kaluuya with the opportunity to reprise his role as a frontier tribe warrior.
After his treacherous actions in Black PantherWakabi’s fate and relationship with his wife, Okoye, remained unclear. During a moment of emotional excitement between Queen Ramonda (Angela Bassett) and Okoye after General Dora Milaje Shuri goes missing, it is revealed that Wakabe was in exile, most likely due to his actions in the prequel. Ramonda also emphasizes the luxury that Okoye has still possessed since then he could Go see her husband if she wants. It has not been confirmed if Okoye has seen W’Kabi since his exile, which would have happened after the events of Black Panther Where Okoye fought defending Killmonger’s claim to the throne. Given her extreme devotion and loyalty to Ch’ella and the Wakandan throne, it’s highly unlikely. However, Ramonda’s statement opens a window for Kaluya’s return as W’Kabi, though it may not be the friendliest of encounters.
For now, Kaluuya is content with watching the franchise’s continued growth from the outside.
