‘The Daily Show’ Host Trevor Noah Has a Secret Cameo in ‘Black Panther’
In 2018, the Marvel Cinematic Universe aimed high not only with Avengers: Infinity War. The year brought the first of two game-changing Avengers films, yes, but also Black Panther. The film was the first MCU release led by a person of color. But more than that, the film gambled big on whether audiences would connect with director Ryan Coogler’s approach to the material.
Of course, audiences loved the film, which stands among the MCU’s biggest success stories. Black Panther earned $1.3 billion and remains the highest-grossing solo film in the MCU. Yet, some fans may still not realize the movie also features a secret cameo from none other than The Daily Show host Trevor Noah.
‘Black Panther’ introduces a new ensemble cast to the MCU
MCU fans met Chadwick Boseman’s T’Challa in Captain America: Civil War. But in Black Panther, they finally get a chance to see the technologically advanced African nation of Wakanda. Along with offering a glimpse into the environments and culture in which T’Challa was raised, audiences also encounter unforgettable new characters who fill out T’Challa’s circle.
In particular, T’Challa has the support of several strong female characters. T’Challa’s sister, Shuri (Letitia Wright), is perhaps the most popular of the bunch, thanks to her intellect and their playful relationship. But fans also meet ex-lover Nakia (Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o), personal guard Okoye (Danai Gurira), and mother Queen Ramonda (Angela Bassett).
But that’s not all. Black Panther also brings Daniel Kaluuya’s W’Kabi and Winston Duke’s M’Baku to the forefront. As T’Challa’s best friend and initial rival to the throne, respectively, both characters help flesh out the intricate society Black Panther brings to the screen.
But few fans probably noticed ‘The Daily Show’ host Trevor Noah’s role
Yet, for all the talented actors in Black Panther, many fans may have missed out on the uncredited role The Daily Show host Trevor Noah plays. But Noah actually plays a major role in the film’s climax. Thanks to ComicBook.com, some fans may know where to look for the comedian-turned-TV-host.
Noah voices Griot, Shuri’s A.I., and is most prominently featured late in the film. When Everett Ross (Martin Freeman) offers to aid T’Challa’s side in the impending battle against Killmonger (Michael B. Jordan), he remotely pilots a Wakandan ship. Griot — a West African term for storyteller — helps him prevent Killmonger’s forces from launching their destructive plans.
Marvel has a long history of getting famous voices to contribute to the MCU, especially as A.I. Long before he played Vision, Oscar-nominated actor Paul Bettany was the voice of Tony Stark’s J.A.R.V.I.S. Then in Spider-Man: Homecoming, Jennifer Connelly played “Karen,” the A.I. controlling Peter Parker’s new Stark-created suit.
‘Black Panther’ is one of Trevor Noah’s only film roles
Noah, a native of South Africa, no doubt relished the chance to take part in Marvel’s first black-led superhero movie. The fact that it is set in an African country — even a fictional one — likely only sweetened the deal on Noah’s part. In fact, he took on Black Panther as one of his only movie roles.
Noah has had a long career as a stand-up comedian and now television personality. But prior to Black Panther, Noah only acted in a pair of little-seen South African films, 2011’s Taka Takata and 2012’s Mad Buddies.
But The Daily Show fans will be happy to know Noah is already firmly in the MCU. At this point, it’s unclear if he will return as Griot in Black Panther II. With any luck, Noah fans might even be able to see the comedian pop up on screen in the MCU at some point. After all, it worked for Bettany.
