Marvel Studios currently has a bunch of films in various stages of development and production. While some of them, like Black Panther 2 and Doctor Strange 2 will centre around characters we’re already familiar with, others like The Eternals and Shang-Chi will introduce to us brand new characters with their own unique abilities. Shang-Chi is particularly interesting as it will feature Marvel’s first Asian superhero.
While Kevin Feige and co have yet to select an actor to bring the character to life, the rumour mill is currently spinning at top speed. According to ThatHashtagShow, Marvel Studios is currently considering Ludi Lin from Power Rangers for the title role. However, this does not mean that he is the favourite to land the role. On the contrary, we should be expecting more names to start popping up over the next few weeks. Marvel Studios is also rumoured to be considering Ross Butler, known for his role as Zach in Netflix’s 13 Reasons Why to play the titular Shang-Chi. However, I highly doubt Butler would be cast in the film as he currently already plays one of the members of the Marvel Family in DC’s Shazam!
But perhaps the most exciting name dropped by ThatHashtagShow is none other than iconic Hong Kong star Donnie Yen (Ip Man, Rogue One). Apparently, Marvel Studios is currently arranging to meet up with Donnie Yen for a role that’s kept under wraps. It wouldn’t be a stretch to guess that Donnie Yen is being roped in to play one of the characters in the Asian-centric comic book film. Perhaps Marvel wants Donnie Yen to play Shang-Chi’s father, the immortal crime lord, Fu Manchu.
Biracial helmer Destin Daniel Cretton is set to direct the film. Cretton previously helmed the highly acclaimed Short Term 12 and the reasonably well-received The Glass Castle. While still unconfirmed, I believe Shang-Chi could be released in November 2021.
