Namor's introduction to the MCU, which could come as soon as in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, could have a negative impact on the return of the titular hero of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. Despite his extensive history in DC comics, his impressive powerset, and his role as one of the founding members of the Justice League, Aquaman became the butt of many jokes aimed at his colorful suit and his ability to communicate with sea life. Many different comic books and animated shows disproved these criticisms, and James Wan's Aquaman cemented Arthur Curry as a superhero to reckon with. However, Aquaman still has some challenges ahead.
Jason Momoa's Aquaman survived the negative reception of the theatrical release of Justice League to become the first and only DCEU hero to reach a billion dollars worldwide at the box office. Aquaman also attained the achievement of taking place mostly underwater, with an impressive amount of visual effects that brought all of Atlantis to life. Yet, the success of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom could be replicated — or possibly surpassed — by similar movies like the ocean-centered Avatar 2 and the Marvel Cinematic Universe's highly anticipated but yet to be confirmed introduction of Namor the Submariner in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
Namor the Submariner, Marvel's own ruler of Atlantis, isn't nearly as famous as Aquaman. But even though this means that he has fewer established fans, it also means he is a blank slate for the MCU. Marvel Studios will probably use the MCU's interconnectivity in their favor, making Namor both a bankable character and a team player. And most importantly for Aquaman's live-action future, Namor could hurt Aquaman's recent popularity by mocking Aquaman's flaws and subverting them.
The MCU has referenced DC characters more than once already. It wouldn't be odd to see Namor making a joke at Aquaman's expense or another character directly comparing the two Atlanteans. If the reference to Namor's DC counterpart is well-received, it could damage how people receive Jason Momoa’s reprisal of Aquaman. Although Aquaman has already proved his worth as a cinematic powerhouse, Namor has the support from one whole cinematic universe to do whatever he pleases with what Aquaman established. Namor could build upon Aquaman's visuals, lore, costumes, characters, and action sequences, or he could throw everything out the window and do his own thing.
Nevertheless, the likelihood of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom being hurt by Namor's introduction is low, as it has already teased how exciting it will be. Characters like Ocean Master and Black Manta will return in the Aquaman sequel alongside new players like Karshon and Stingray, and Jason Momoa will come back stronger than ever with a brand new costume. As for the Submariner, Namor would surely be a highlight in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, which could result in his own unique MCU movie later down the line.
