Marvel Studios finds itself at an intriguing crossroads regarding potential character expansions in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), particularly with the inclusion of John Boyega. The acclaimed British actor and producer, known for his roles in films like Attack the Block and the Star Wars franchise, has been vocal about his reservations towards Marvel films, indicating a perceived deficit of “fresh ideas”(as reported by Men’s Health). However, recent interactions with Marvel’s head honcho Kevin Feige suggest a possible shift in Boyega’s stance, opening the door for potential casting opportunities within the MCU.
During the 2023 C2E2 event, Boyega acknowledged discussions with Marvel Studios about his potential entry into the MCU. Although he humorously remarked that “there ain’t no room for [him],”this change in attitude has sparked excitement and speculation among fans regarding which iconic Marvel character he might play. Boyega has specifically expressed interest in a character, yet his dream casting does not necessarily imply that plan will manifest. Nonetheless, several intriguing characters fit for the actor’s talents await exploration.
8 Tyrone Johnson’s Cloak
Tyrone Johnson Debuted In Marvel Comics In 1982’s Peter Parker, The Spectacular Spider-Man #64

Tyrone “Ty”Johnson has seen a prior live-action portrayal through Tandy Bowen in Marvel Television’s Cloak & Dagger series, which, however, is not considered part of the MCU’s main continuity. This opens up avenues for a fresh interpretation of the mystical vigilante, with Boyega ideally suited to embody a more mature, hardened version of Cloak. His skillset in grounded, character-driven stories such as Small Axe and Detroit aligns perfectly with the street-level narratives often explored in the MCU.
As the MCU’s landscape evolves with properties like Daredevil: Born Again, introducing a new iteration of Cloak could add depth to the universe, especially within a New York setting ruled by the likes of Kingpin. Boyega’s Cloak would indeed be a formidable presence operating in shadows, potentially as an ally within a reimagined team similar to Daredevil’s storyline.
7 Nick Fury Jr.
Nick Fury Jr. Debuted In Marvel Comics In 2012’s Battle Scars #1

Since 2008, audiences have experienced the charisma of Samuel L. Jackson portraying Nick Fury, the strategic mastermind behind the Avengers. However, with recent less-than-stellar receptions for his appearances in Secret Invasion and The Marvels, the narrative arc may be approaching an end. This scenario opens the door for Boyega to take on the mantle of Nick Fury Jr., allowing for new dynamics in the MCU. Given the son’s importance in Marvel lore, Boyega could seamlessly transition into this leading role, steering new storylines centered around his father’s legacy.
Nick Fury’s Live-Action MCU Project |
Year |
Role |
---|---|---|
Iron Man |
2008 |
Cameo |
Iron Man 2 |
2010 |
Supporting Cast |
Thor |
2011 |
Cameo |
Captain America: The First Avenger |
2011 |
Cameo |
The Avengers |
2012 |
Main Cast |
Captain America: The Winter Soldier |
2014 |
Supporting Cast |
Avengers: Age of Ultron |
2015 |
Cameo |
Avengers: Infinity War |
2018 |
Cameo |
Captain Marvel |
2019 |
Main Cast |
Avengers: Endgame |
2019 |
Cameo |
Spider-Man: Far From Home |
2019 |
Supporting Cast |
Secret Invasion |
2023 |
Lead |
The Marvels |
2023 |
Supporting Cast |
Furthermore, if characters from the Marvel television shows like Agents of SHIELD potentially make their way back into the MCU, Boyega’s Nick Fury Jr. could lead a new contingent of Secret Avengers. With his notable screen presence and acting prowess, Boyega would do justice to Fury Jr.’s character, propelling fresh narratives within the MCU.
6 Hobie Brown’s Spider-Punk
Hobart “Hobie”Brown Debuted In Marvel Comics In 2015’s The Amazing Spider-Man #10

While another British actor, Daniel Kaluuya, has voiced Spider-Punk in Sony’s animated universe, his involvement in the MCU through live-action presents opportunities for reimagining the role. Boyega would embody this rebellious, anti-establishment Spider-Man effectively, serving as a refreshing presence in a potential multiversal adventure within the MCU. This character could serve as a lead-in to some of Marvel Comics’ significant upcoming events.
Spider-Punk plays an essential role in the narrative arc known as Spider-Geddon, where an alliance of Spider-Men confronts formidable foes. His inclusion could lay the groundwork for an MCU storyline featuring Morlun, a character often speculated to appear in upcoming Spider-Man arcs. John Boyega’s relatable charisma and satirical edge resonate with Spider-Punk’s characteristics, making him a fitting choice.
5 Jericho Drumm’s Doctor Voodoo
Jericho Drumm Debuted In Marvel Comics In 1973’s Strange Tales #169

Fans have long anticipated the arrival of Jericho Drumm, also known as Brother Voodoo, into the MCU, especially following Mark Anthony Brighton’s brief appearance as Daniel Drumm in Doctor Strange. Given Jericho’s immense power and his history as Marvel’s Sorcerer Supreme, Boyega would bring significant weight to the character. His cinematic portrayal would allow for a deeper exploration of the mystical dimensions of the Marvel Universe.
With recent films and series pushing deeper into the supernatural elements of the MCU, including characters like Blade and Moon Knight, the introduction of Doctor Voodoo aligns perfectly with this expanded narrative focus. Boyega’s experiences in unique roles position him well to tackle this character’s depth and complexity, particularly as Benedict Cumberbatch’s future as Doctor Strange remains uncertain.
4 Adam Brashear’s Blue Marvel
Adam Brashear Debuted In Marvel Comics In 2008’s Adam: Legend Of The Blue Marvel #1

Introduced in 2008, Adam Brashear was quickly retrofitted into Marvel’s historical narrative as a pivotal hero of the 1960s. His story encapsulates significant themes of racial discrimination and heroism that resonate strongly today, making it a timely and impactful narrative for the MCU, fitting for an actor like John Boyega to convey. Boyega’s previous roles have emphasized the Black experience, and embodying a character as layered and culturally significant as Blue Marvel could further enrich the cinematic landscape.
Boyega’s portrayal could parallel the integration of other timely figures, similarly to how Isaiah Bradley redefined the narrative of Captain America. As Marvel continually embraces diversity in storytelling, Blue Marvel could become a central figure in the ongoing evolution of the MCU as Boyega steps into this vital role.
3 T’Challa’s Black Panther Variant
T’Challa Debuted In Marvel Comics In 1966’s Fantastic Four #52

The untimely passing of Chadwick Boseman in 2020 left a significant void in the portrayal of T’Challa, the Black Panther. This absence raised questions about potential recasting. Speculation has surfaced regarding Marvel’s innovative use of the multiverse to introduce a new version of T’Challa, making Boyega a compelling candidate to carry on this monumental legacy. His strong presence and cultural affinity for the character could result in a memorable portrayal, continuing Boseman’s impactful narrative.
T’Challa’s Live-Action MCU Project |
Year |
Role |
---|---|---|
Captain America: Civil War |
2016 |
Supporting Cast |
Black Panther |
2018 |
Lead |
Avengers: Infinity War |
2018 |
Main Cast |
Avengers: Endgame |
2019 |
Supporting Cast |
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever |
2022 |
Posthumous Cameo |
Much like with Blue Marvel, taking on the role of T’Challa would allow John Boyega to embrace and celebrate his Black heritage, portraying one of the most iconic Black superheroes in history. His previous roles as African characters provide Boyega the necessary background to offer a nuanced performance. There’s also potential for him to be introduced as Toussaint, T’Challa’s son, present in Wakanda Forever, opening avenues for new storytelling possibilities.
2 Luke Cage
Luke Cage Debuted In Marvel Comics In 1972’s Luke Cage, Hero For Hire #1

Following Mike Colter’s tenure as Luke Cage in Netflix’s Defenders Saga, criticism surrounding his portrayal may prompt Marvel Studios to seek a new direction for the character. Luke’s significance in Marvel Comics is undeniable, evolving from a hero for hire to a pivotal member of the Avengers. An actor of Boyega’s caliber could rejuvenate this character, infusing fresh energy into the MCU.
The continued expansion of the Defenders narrative through projects like Daredevil: Born Again highlights an impending return for Luke Cage or other key characters. Boyega possesses the physique, screen presence, and charisma necessary to captivate audiences, making him an excellent candidate for this role as Marvel looks to redefine its street-level heroes.
1 Lucas Bishop
Lucas Bishop Debuted In Marvel Comics In 1991’s The Uncanny X-Men #282

During his appearance at C2E2, Boyega was directly asked which Marvel superhero he aspired to portray, to which he simply stated, “Oh, I’d play Bishop“(as noted on X). Lucas Bishop, a formidable time-traveling mutant, stands at the threshold of pivotal Marvel storylines including the Age of Apocalypse and Messiah Complex. Given the MCU’s ongoing development of mutant narratives, Boyega’s desire to portray this character adds exciting prospects to future story arcs.
John Boyega says Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige once asked who he’d want to play in the #MCU — but he didn’t have an answer. When a fan suggested Bishop from the X-Men, Boyega replied, “Oh, I’d play Bishop.”(Source: @joshuahorowitz) pic.twitter.com/AtMgKNSGIX — MCU Film News (@MCUFilmNews) April 14, 2025
Lucas Bishop is recognized as one of the strongest members of the X-Men, often overlooked in previous cinematic adaptations. While Omar Sy portrayed him in X-Men: Days of Future Past, the character deserves a reintroduction that allows him to shine. Building the character’s narrative within Marvel Studios’ upcoming X-Men reboot would greatly benefit from a talented actor like John Boyega, making it imperative for Marvel to consider this casting seriously.