It looks like Shang Chi is getting even better with the internet getting official news that Jackie Chan is in negotiations with Marvel Studios to play Zheng Zu in Shang-Chi and the Legend of Ten Rings.
This comes off the back of the Phase 4 panel at San Diego Comic-Con where the film was officially announced by Kevin Feige. The movie is looking to have a large and wide-ranging cast of Asian Actors and I think it’s fair to say that Jackie Chan is arguably the biggest Asian Movie star of all time probably only rivaled by the late Bruce Lee.
Chan is reportedly negotiating a small part in Shang Chi and if confirmed this is rumored to be announced officially at The Disney D23 expo which will be happening later this month.
Zheng Zu’s Role
For those who don’t know Zheng Zu is Shang Chi’s father and he is also the Emporer of K’un Lyn. Zu apparently created Shang Chi from “forging his heart from the steel of the Ebony Blade melted in the Eternal Flame.” Though this legend may be false it’s pretty much the foundation of Shang Chi’s legend and is one of the reasons that he grows to have such a reputation.
I definitely think it’s a smart move to cast Chan in this role and him passing the torch somewhat during the movie will definitely add a lot of authenticity to it.
Zheng Zu actually becomes a villain in the series and the fact that this is being listed as a small role could mean that this is a set up for the next film in the series with Chan playing a more prominent role further down the line.
I’m really hyped for this news as I think Chan will bring a lot of credibility to the film and the martial arts legend giving his seal of approval will definitely give the MCU a huge foundation to build off of.
Your Thoughts
Obviously, I’d love to hear your thoughts on this news and if you’re excited to see Jackie Chan in the MCU. If you have a better casting idea then let me know in the comments below.
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