Implications Of The Mid-Credits Scene Of ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’
WARNING: SPOILERS FOR BLACK PANTHER: WAKANDA FOREVER
A Marvel film is not complete without a mid- or post-credit scene. The latest installment of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, was no exception, and its mid-credit scene was almost certain to have implications for the entire MCU.
In the last scene of the film, Shuri traveled to Haiti to spend some more time with Nakia. Following her arrival in Haiti, Shuri went on to follow the Wakandan ritual of burning the attire she wore at the funeral of King T’Challa. The audience was then treated to flashback footage of King T’Challa before we moved to the mid-credit scene.
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Wakanda Forever focussed on Shuri as she tried to mourn the death of her brother King T’Challa. Throughout much of the film, Shuri was unable to grieve for her brother, and instead chose to focus on her work. Namor’s attempted attack on Wakanda also served as a distraction from Shuri’s grief. However, by the end of the film, Shuri was finally able to let go. While Shuri had gained the power of the Black Panther, she had also allowed M’Baku to take the throne while she dealt with her grief.
In the mid-credit scene, Nakia introduced Shuri (and the audience) to a six-year-old boy named Toussaint. She explained that Toussaint is T’Challa’s son and Shuri’s nephew. Shuri was clearly shocked at this revelation and was surprised when she learned that the boy’s Wakandan name is Prince T’Challa. It was heartwarming to know that Queen Mother Ramonda also knew of her grandson and was able to meet him.
This mid-credit reveal certainly holds large implications for the rest of the MCU. The arrival of T’challa means that he could one day become the Black Panther and ascend the throne of Wakanda. This opens up the possibility for a future Black Panther sequel. However, Toussaint's story likely would not take place for a while as he is still many years from adulthood.
M’Baku’s current rule of Wakanda could also complicate matters. What if, down the line, M’Baku does not want to give up the throne? That could certainly lead to a conflict similar to what happened between T’Challa and Killmonger.
Another important factor to consider when thinking about the future of Toussaint is how his upbringing will impact his desire to rule. Unlike many other Wakandan rulers, Toussaint will not be growing up in Wakanda. Instead, he will be raised in Haiti. This may actually benefit Toussaint as it will allow him to grow up with a different perspective and bring new ideas to the nation. On the other hand, some Wakandans may end up actually viewing Toussaint as an outsider.
Based on his age, it is likely that Toussaint was likely conceived in the brief window between Black Panther and Avengers: Infinity War. This means Toussaint probably only knew his father for about a year. His growing up without his father may become a factor when he will also have to ultimately decide whether he will want to take up his father’s legacy as the Black Panther now that Shuri has successfully synthesized the heart-shaped herb.
It is unclear what role Toussaint may play in the MCU down the line. Despite his young age, his appearance at the end of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever shows that he cares deeply for his family and his heritage and could be a very strong leader in the future.
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Source(s): Hollywood Reporter, Screen Rant