You can't call yourself a fan unless you know these facts about our new favourite superhero
When King T’Challa was first introduced as Black Panther way back in 1966. And now, 50 odd years later and he’s now a highly respected character in the Marvel universe, with many comic titles to his name, and more recently, starring in his own Black Panther movie.
This very well-educated, powerful and wealthy superhero, known for his cunning strategies and strength, has earned his title of one of the elite superheroes of the universe.
Now we get that some fans may not date back as far as Black Panther himself and that you may be a new fan due to his recent movie.
So, let’s explore some Black Panther facts that you may not know.
1. Black Panther was the first black superhero in mainstream comics
Earning his place in history, Black Panther was the first ever black superhero to be introduced in a mainstream comic book. In
Fantastic Four issue #52, fans met Black Panther for the first time.
2. Black Panther had multiple name changes, but they pretty much sucked
Way back in the 60’s, there was a revolutionary party called the Black Panther Party, which had no connection to the comic book character. Stan Lee and Jack Kirby not wanting fans to believe their creation was a political statement tried different names – Black Leopard and Coal Tiger. Thank god they were scrapped after both Marvel, and the fans scoffed at the new names.
3. Black Panther is a title, not a name
In his country, Black Panther is a title that is passed down from protector to protector. T’Challa went through his rite of passage to earn his title after defeating several champions from Wakandan tribes, as well as his uncle. Once the sacred herbs were applied to his body, he gained the full powers associated with the title, Black Panther.
4. Sorry Tony Stark - Black Panther is the richest character now
T’Challa is considered one of the smartest, and wealthiest, characters in the Marvel universe. With a PhD in Physics from Oxford University, he once argued with Spider-Man that he is the most intelligent man in the world! And thanks to the Vibranium reserves found in Wakanda, he boasts a net worth estimated over 500 billion dollars.
5. Black Panther has helped Marvel heroes with weapons for years
Long before he became a big-time movie star, Black Panther and his Wakanda Design Group have been creating weapons for Marvel heroes, notably the Avengers and Captain America. T’Challa’s dad, T-Chaka, made a circular Vibranium shield for Captain America that was the inspiration behind the iconic round shield. He also used an adamantium shield Black Panther made for him in
Iron Man issues #215 - #232.
6. Black Panther is part of the exclusive Illuminati of Marvel Comics
To save the Marvel Universe, Black Panther accepted the invitation to join the elite Illuminati in
New Avengers vol. 3 issue #1. Only the best minds of the superhero community are invited to this group, where they work secretly protect humanity and avoid conflict. He joined the likes of Doctor Strange, Black Bolt, Charles Xavier, Reed Richards, Namor the Sub-Mariner and Iron Man.
7. Wesley Snipes was almost the Black Panther
Back in 1992, Wesley wanted to play T’Challa, but the movie failed to get the green light from Hollywood. Contributing to the script and wanting to keep it right to the comic book, the team were finding it hard to secure a deal. So, it all just kind of fizzled out. And perhaps that’s a good thing as it left him free to make the ‘Blade’ trilogy.
8. You better watch this movie – it’s taken over 20 years to make Black Panther
Strong characters with well-established back stories and associations should quickly create a movie, right? Marvel tried for over 20 years to bring Black Panther to life in his own movie. After signing a deal with Paramount Pictures in 2005, it took years to find a suitable director, finally getting
Creed director Ryan Coogler on board. Here’s hoping this hard road has paved the way for more movies in the future.
So now you’re up to speed with the best Black Panther facts
As you can see, he’s pretty much the total package when it comes to a superhero. A trailblazer, a hero, a member of royalty, a member of the Illuminati, super smart, and filthy rich. What’s not to love?
Marvel superhero fans across Australia are making room in their wardrobes for their new
Black Panther costumes. And although most
Marvel costumes are muscular and a tad sexy, there’s something about the sleek look of Black Panther that adds to his appeal.
Want a great deal on your Black Panther costume?
When you buy any
Marvel costume from Blossom Costumes, you’ll get fast and free delivery (spend over $30 and order before 1 pm, and we’ll ship your costume the same day via Express Post). You’ll find the material is of a high-quality that won’t fall apart the minute you get into a superhero fight. And you’ll love that our online ordering has shields made by the Black Panther crew that will keep out the baddies and keep your deets safe.
Earning his place in history, Black Panther was the first ever black superhero to be introduced in a mainstream comic book. In Fantastic Four issue #52, fans met Black Panther for the first time.
Way back in the 60’s, there was a revolutionary party called the Black Panther Party, which had no connection to the comic book character. Stan Lee and Jack Kirby not wanting fans to believe their creation was a political statement tried different names – Black Leopard and Coal Tiger. Thank god they were scrapped after both Marvel, and the fans scoffed at the new names.
In his country, Black Panther is a title that is passed down from protector to protector. T’Challa went through his rite of passage to earn his title after defeating several champions from Wakandan tribes, as well as his uncle. Once the sacred herbs were applied to his body, he gained the full powers associated with the title, Black Panther.
T’Challa is considered one of the smartest, and wealthiest, characters in the Marvel universe. With a PhD in Physics from Oxford University, he once argued with Spider-Man that he is the most intelligent man in the world! And thanks to the Vibranium reserves found in Wakanda, he boasts a net worth estimated over 500 billion dollars.
Long before he became a big-time movie star, Black Panther and his Wakanda Design Group have been creating weapons for Marvel heroes, notably the Avengers and Captain America. T’Challa’s dad, T-Chaka, made a circular Vibranium shield for Captain America that was the inspiration behind the iconic round shield. He also used an adamantium shield Black Panther made for him in Iron Man issues #215 - #232.
To save the Marvel Universe, Black Panther accepted the invitation to join the elite Illuminati in New Avengers vol. 3 issue #1. Only the best minds of the superhero community are invited to this group, where they work secretly protect humanity and avoid conflict. He joined the likes of Doctor Strange, Black Bolt, Charles Xavier, Reed Richards, Namor the Sub-Mariner and Iron Man.
Back in 1992, Wesley wanted to play T’Challa, but the movie failed to get the green light from Hollywood. Contributing to the script and wanting to keep it right to the comic book, the team were finding it hard to secure a deal. So, it all just kind of fizzled out. And perhaps that’s a good thing as it left him free to make the ‘Blade’ trilogy.
Strong characters with well-established back stories and associations should quickly create a movie, right? Marvel tried for over 20 years to bring Black Panther to life in his own movie. After signing a deal with Paramount Pictures in 2005, it took years to find a suitable director, finally getting Creed director Ryan Coogler on board. Here’s hoping this hard road has paved the way for more movies in the future.
Want a great deal on your Black Panther costume?
When you buy any Marvel costume from Blossom Costumes, you’ll get fast and free delivery (spend over $30 and order before 1 pm, and we’ll ship your costume the same day via Express Post). You’ll find the material is of a high-quality that won’t fall apart the minute you get into a superhero fight. And you’ll love that our online ordering has shields made by the Black Panther crew that will keep out the baddies and keep your deets safe.