Marvel’s recent unveiling of a white character as the new Black Panther has reignited the long-running meme featuring Ryan Gosling as the iconic hero.
In the first issue of Marvel Knights: The World To Come (2025), a bold twist sees T'Challa’s son, Ketema, taking on the mantle of Black Panther—only to reveal himself as a white man, much to the surprise of fans. This revelation has reignited debates surrounding the character’s identity and spurred the meme, which humorously features Gosling in the role of the Wakandan king.
Ketema's unmasking as a white young man has raised eyebrows, particularly because Black Panther, in both comic lore and on-screen portrayals (such as by Chadwick Boseman and Letitia Wright), has historically been a Black African character. The reveal, as part of the Marvel Knights series, follows a politically charged storyline set in the wake of T'Challa's death, where Ketema, a product of T'Challa's relationship with Monica Lynne, assumes the throne after defeating his father in a challenge. However, the mystery surrounding Ketema’s true parentage has fueled speculation. Some fans question if he is indeed T'Challa’s biological son or if another explanation—such as genetic engineering or alternate realities—might be at play.
As the character of Ketema steps into a new role in Wakanda, the viral meme depicting Gosling as Black Panther has resurfaced, as fans joke about the possibility of the actor embodying the character on screen. While this meme has circulated for years, with Gosling often being humorously suggested for the role, the comic’s plot twist has breathed new life into this online trend.
The meme’s return reflects the ongoing conversation about the boundaries of cultural identity, legacy, and representation in popular media, especially within the context of Marvel's bold narrative choices. It remains to be seen whether future Marvel Knights issues will provide more clarity about Ketema’s origins and his role in Wakanda’s future. The controversy and discussion sparked by this creative decision underscore Marvel’s willingness to challenge conventions and explore new narratives.
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