The announcement on June 6, 2025, that Ryan Gosling has been cast as the new Black Panther in the upcoming Black Panther 3 has unleashed a torrent of backlash from fans, particularly those who hold the late Chadwick Boseman’s portrayal of T’Challa as sacred. The decision, revealed by Marvel Studios during a press event, has sparked widespread outrage, with many fans labeling it an insult to Boseman’s legacy and the cultural significance of the Black Panther character. Social media platforms, especially X, have been flooded with reactions ranging from disbelief to anger, as fans argue that casting a white actor in the role undermines the character’s deep ties to African heritage and Black representation.

Chadwick Boseman’s performance as T’Challa in the 2018 Black Panther film was a landmark moment in cinema, earning critical acclaim and breaking cultural barriers. The movie, directed by Ryan Coogler, became a global phenomenon, celebrated for its Afrofuturist vision and authentic portrayal of African identity. Boseman, who passed away in 2020, imbued the role with dignity and strength, making T’Challa a symbol of Black excellence. For many, his portrayal was inseparable from the character, and the idea of a white actor—particularly Gosling, known for roles in films like La La Land and Barbie—taking up the mantle feels like a betrayal. “This is a slap in the face to everything Chadwick stood for,” one fan posted on X. Another wrote, “Ryan Gosling as Black Panther? Are we living in a dystopian timeline?”

The controversy stems from Marvel’s decision to introduce a new character, Ketema, as T’Challa’s son in Black Panther 3, set to release in 2027. According to leaked plot details, Ketema, played by Gosling, assumes the Black Panther mantle after defeating T’Challa in a ritual challenge, a storyline loosely adapted from the recent Marvel Knights: The World To Come comic. In the comic, Ketema’s reveal as a white-passing character with blond hair and blue eyes already sparked debate, but casting Gosling—a prominent white actor—has amplified the criticism. Fans argue that the decision disregards Wakanda’s identity as a fictional African nation untouched by colonialism. “Wakanda is supposed to represent Black pride and resilience,” one user stated. “Casting a white guy as its king is beyond tone-deaf.”

Marvel Studios has defended the casting, with Kevin Feige emphasizing Gosling’s acting range and the story’s intent to explore complex themes of identity and leadership. In a statement, Feige noted that the film will address Ketema’s controversial rise to power, hinting at a narrative that challenges Wakanda’s traditions. Director Ryan Coogler, returning for the third installment, has remained silent on the casting but previously described the project as a “bold evolution” for the franchise. Some speculate that Ketema’s character may explore themes of cultural displacement or serve as a villain, possibly echoing colonial critiques, but these justifications have done little to quell fan anger.

Not all reactions have been negative. A small group of fans argues that Gosling’s casting could bring fresh attention to the franchise, with one X post stating, “Give Ryan a chance—he’s a great actor, and the story might surprise us.” Others suggest that the outrage overlooks the possibility of a nuanced plot, such as Ketema being a biracial or adopted heir. However, these defenses are drowned out by the dominant sentiment that the casting disrespects Boseman’s legacy and the Black community. Petitions calling for Marvel to recast the role have gained thousands of signatures, and hashtags like #HonorChadwick and #RecastBlackPanther are trending.

The uproar reflects broader tensions in Hollywood over representation and legacy. While Marvel has diversified its roster with characters like Miles Morales and Shang-Chi, the decision to place a white actor in a role so deeply rooted in Black culture has struck a nerve. Fans have invoked Boseman’s own words from a 2018 interview: “T’Challa is a hero for people who haven’t seen themselves on screen.” For many, Gosling’s casting feels like a step backward. As Black Panther 3 moves forward, Marvel faces the challenge of navigating this backlash while honoring the cultural weight of Wakanda. Whether the film can redeem its controversial choice remains to be seen, but for now, fans remain steadfast in their call for respect and authenticity.