When the
Black Panther leaps onto screens everywhere in the 2009 BET-airing animated series, the super hero protector and King of Wakanda will truly make his presence known, thanks to the vocal talents of Academy Award-nominated actor Djimon Hounsou. Based directly on the BLACK PANTHER story "Who is the Black Panther?" by Reginald Hudlin and John Romita, Jr., the series recounts the origin of the iconic hero, while updating the character and his world for a new generation.
A two-time Oscar nominee for "In America" and "Blood Diamond," Hounsou has also been honored with the NAACP Image Award, National Board of Review Award, Screen Actors Guild Award, Independent
Spirit Award and the 2004 ShoWest Supporting Actor of the Year.
"It's a blessing for African Americans and minorities to have a super hero they can identify with," says Hounsou. "While the Black Panther is a powerful force for good, he is also a respected world leader who takes pride in his African heritage. He embodies the past and future of his culture, demonstrating the endless possibilities of an Africa that is truly free."
"BET is thrilled to have Djimon Hounsou join us as the voice of THE BLACK PANTHER," says Denys Cowan, Senior Vice President, Animation for BET Networks. "He is a talented, compelling actor who will be the perfect voice for such an important super hero in the Marvel universe and such a moment in this historic environment."
"Having Djimon Hounsou voice the lead character in this new series speaks to the power of the character and the relationship between BET and Marvel Animation," said Eric Rollman, President of Marvel Animation. "The Black Panther animated series is Marvel's entrée into prime-time animation and Djimon raises the bar for all involved as we bring the best in the animation business together to execute on that vision."
Want to get prepped for the animated series early? Read BLACK PANTHER #1-6 right now on Marvel Digital Comics Unlimited! Stay glued to Marvel.com for all your "Black Panther" animated series updates!
