Ludi Lin is reportedly in consideration to land the lead role in Marvel Studios' Shang-Chi, and Donnie Yen could join him in a different role. Now that Spider-Man: Far From Home is just a few weeks away from hitting theaters, it won't be long until all eyes are turned to what comes next for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The plans for Phase 4 are currently unconfirmed, but we do know that a Black Widow solo movie is currently filming and other projects are moving fast, such as Shang-Chi.
The solo film is positioned to be the first from Marvel Studios to feature an Asian actor in the title role and is another step forward for Marvel in diversifying their overall lineup. Shang-Chi has been in the works since last year when David Callaham was hired to write the script. Since his hiring, Marvel hired Destin Daniel Cretton to direct the movie and more signs point to the film moving quicker than many previously expected. This has left fans with a big question: Who will play Shang-Chi?
According to a report from That Hashtag Show, Marvel Studios is now searching for the right actor to play the lead role and Ludi Lin is the first name to surface as a contender. It is not yet clear if he has actually met for the role, but Marvel is reportedly interested in him. He is just one of many actors in consideration though, and the report also notes that Ross Butler could land a meeting too. Additionally, Marvel is said to be hoping to meet with Donnie Yen about a potential role in Shang-Chi.
If Lin and Butler - both of whom were on our suggested picks for the role last year - are in contention, or at the very least targets, to play Shang-Chi then it shows that they are open to different sizes for the Master of Kung Fu. Lin is a skilled martial artist who stands 5'10" tall and has demonstrated that ability in Power Rangers and most recently during sections of Black Mirror. Butler, on the other hand, does know martial arts too but is 6'2", which would give Shang-Chi a much more imposing presence on screen. Both actors have recently done DC roles, with Lin in Aquaman and Butler in Shazam!, but Lin specifically told Screen Rant this year that he definitely wants to play Shang-Chi.
As for Yen, he has developed a strong relationship with Disney in recent years. He appeared in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story in 2016 and has a role lined up in the live-action remake of Mulan. His familiarity with Disney gives him an easy in with Marvel, while his draw internationally and martial arts talents also help his case. Yen could be the choice to play the character many believe is going to be the Mandarin, which would be a huge, potentially recurring role for him. Of course, all of these names have yet to officially be cast in Shang-Chi, so we'll have to wait and see if any of them sign on.
Source: That Hashtag Show