In a new version of an iconic cover from David Nakayama starring Shuri, the Wakandan hero shines as Black Panther. In the photorealistic variant cover, Shuri wears her own Black Panther costume, fitted with a long cape, fur accents, and her beautiful hair flowing as she's not wearing her mask. The new version of the cover is a part of Unknown Comics' fifth-anniversary celebration.
In the comics, Shuri is the sister to the leading Black Panther, T'Challa. The Princess of Wakanda is the heiress to the throne, whose genius-level intellect has been integral in the city's technological innovation and assisting her brother. After T'Challa is nearly killed, Shuri vies to become the new Black Panther, completing the necessary trials. However, she isn't granted the powers of the Black Panther due to her jealousy of her brother. However, the Panther God eventually gives her the abilities and official role after Shuri saves Wakanda and helps bring T'Challa back to life. In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Shuri is played by actress Letitia Wright. Rumors have suggested Shuri will become the next Black Panther in the MCU following the passing of Chadwick Boseman.
On his personal Twitter account, artist David Nakayama shared his lifelike cover starring Shuri in her Black Panther costume. The image is absolutely stunning, as Nakayama brings the character to life with a photorealistic design that imagines what Shuri could like in the role in the MCU. The cover is a new version of Nakayama's previous variant, featuring the same image with a darker background. The white background really helps emphasize the character's beauty and badass nature.
The cover is an updated version of a cover set to appear on the upcoming Black Panther #1 by John Ridley and Juan Cabal. On his website, Nakayama explained that the comic-accurate image started off as fan art based on the storyline where T'Challa is taken out of commission and Shuri rises in his place. Marvel's Black Panther series is set to relaunch later this year in an action-packed series set to change T'Challa's life forever.
For fans of Black Panther and Shuri, it's a must-pick-up. For those hopeful she follows her path in the comics and replaces T'Challa as Black Panther, the cover might be an unintentional tease at what might come next in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. For those wanting to get the stunning variant cover starring Shuri's Black Panther, it's available to order now on the Unknown Comics website.
Source: David Nakayama