Although production has yet to officially begin for Shang-Chi, Marvel Studios may be circling candidates to play the title hero. A new report from That Hashtag Show (via Newsarama) notes that both Ludi Lin (top left) and Ross Butler (top right) are both on the “short list” to play the lead role. Lin has previously had roles in Power Rangers and Aquaman, while Butler appeared as the older (and superhuman) version of Eugene Choi in Shazam! earlier this year.
In the past, Lin has expressed interest in playing Marvel’s Master of Kung Fu. While speaking with ScreenRant late last year, he expressed a great deal of excitement for Marvel’s upcoming film.
“It’s definitely something I want to do,” said Lin. “To do an Asian-centric superhero. To tell that story. I mean ideally, I’d like to design my own superhero, make my own creation. But I think the Marvel world is pretty incredible as well. Especially in honor of Stan Lee, the person who created this entire, I mean like an entire universe. You know what I mean? It’s pretty incredible. And I think it would be great because it would take another big step towards representation.”
Related: Marvel Taps Destin Daniel Cretton To Direct Shang-Chi
That Hashtag Show also notes that there is interest in bringing actor Donnie Yen on board. The report notes that this could be a “huge win” for overseas audiences, since Yen is a huge draw in Hong Kong alone. However, it’s unclear which role Yen would portray in the film.
Who do you want to see as Shang-Chi on the big screen? Let us know in the comment section below!
Recommended Reading: Shang-Chi: Master of Kung-Fu Omnibus Vol. 1
