Marvel's "Shang-Chi" Sequel Is Still Happening

In the three years since Marvel’s "Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings" premiered, fans have been rightfully concerned about updates to the property's future. 

Despite Marvel being radio silent, however, Simu Liu continues to assure viewers that there is still hope. The actor portrays the titular character who must battle his tyrannical father for the fate of a mystical realm, Ta Lo. 

A classic origin story revolving around the protagonist’s journey, Shang-Chi used familiar story points to tell a refreshing story. 

Marvel was suffering from superhero fatigue, and Shang-Chi’s use of kung-fu and culturally significant beats set it apart from others.

Liu's role as Ken in Greta Gerwig’s "Barbie" was a highlight of the 2023 season but worried fans that Shang-Chi is on the back burner. 

However, Liu took to Threads to correct this misconception. After a fan expressed discontent that Shang-Chi did not seem to be a priority for Marvel.

“I proooomiss it’s happening,” Liu commented. The actor has been quite transparent on social media in the past, so his assurances are trustworthy. But with other films in the works and no confirmation as of yet, it doesn’t appear to be a priority for the brand.

Currently, Marvel seems to be at a crossroads with its programming. After launching Disney+ and the success of "WandaVision" and "Loki", television programming seemed to be the future. However, with fewer relevant additions such as "Secret Invasion", Marvel has lost its confidence. They have slowed down the production of its films and television. 

"Young Avengers" has been teased for some time and still has yet to have a definitive production date. The brand seems to focus on past successes such as "X-Men ‘97" and "Daredevil", two effective reboots of popular properties.

For comic fans, Shang-Chi is a beloved character that connects to other well-known figures like Iron Fist. Shang-Chi is instrumental in the future of Marvel, no matter when it comes out. Until then, fans can relive the epic fight scenes by streaming Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings on Disney+.

In December 2021, it was revealed that Destin Daniel Cretton would be returning to write and direct the pic, as well as signing an overall deal with Marvel amid the first film’s success.

“Working on Shang-Chi with Kevin [Feige] and the Marvel Studios team was one of the highlights of my life, and I couldn’t be more excited about Tara’s vision for Onyx Collective,” Cretton said at the time the sequel was announced.

“I can’t wait to explore new stories & build new worlds with this community,” he added.

"Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings", which was the first movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe to feature an Asian lead and predominantly Asian cast, went on to gross $432 million worldwide once it hit theaters in September 2021.