The cast of the upcoming Black Panther sequel was announced earlier this week during a panel at San Diego’s Comic-con.
The cast includes two actors of Mayan origin, Josué Maychi and María Mercedes Coroy.
They will play the roles of Attuma and Namora, respectively.
“This is such an incredible opportunity. I am so proud of the opportunity to work on this amazing film and represent my people,” said Josué Maychi, who is originally from Hopelchen, Campeche.
The production will also feature Tenoch Huerta, a renowned actor from Mexico State, playing the role of Namor, the film’s main antagonist.
Earlier: Mayan actors under the spotlight in Netflix film ‘Tragic Jungle’
“I am so grateful and proud right now. What a long road it has been,” said the actress of Guatemalan origin, María Mercedes Coroy
The news of the actor’s participation has been widely celebrated in their communities, as it’s not often Maya get representation in such high-profile films.
Though films featuring Maya people or set in Mesoamerica are relatively few and far between, there does appear to be a trend towards greater representation.
Despite the common belief that the Maya disappeared centuries ago, eight million people of Mayan descent currently inhabit southern Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, and Honduras.
The film “Wakanda Forever” is scheduled for release in late November and is set to continue the saga of the Black Panther.
