Dijimon Hounsou to Voice Marvel Superhero

NEW YORK, November 11:
Two-time Academy Award-nominated actor Dijimon Hounsou has signed on as the voice
of the iconic Marvel superhero The Black Panther for an upcoming animated
series based on the character that is set to premiere on BET in 2009.

The series will be adapted
directly from the first six issues of the Marvel Comic written by Reginald Hudlin,
called Who Is The Black Panther.
Hounsou is best known for his work in In
America and Blood Diamond.

"BET is thrilled to
have Djimon Hounsou join us as the voice of The Black Panther," said Denys
Cowan, the senior VP of animation for BET Networks. "He is a talented,
compelling actor who will be the perfect voice for such an important super hero
in the Marvel universe and such a moment in this historic environment."

"Having Djimon
Hounsou voice the lead character in this new series speaks to the power of the
character and the partnership between BET and Marvel Animation," added
Eric Rollman, the president of Marvel Animation. "The Black Panther animated series is Marvel's entree into
prime-time animation and Djimon raises the bar for all involved as we bring the
best in the animation business together to execute on that vision."

"It's a blessing for
African Americans and minorities to have a super hero they can identify
with," commented Hounsou. "While the Black Panther is a powerful
force for good, he is also a respected world leader who takes pride in his
African heritage. He embodies the past and future of his culture, demonstrating
the endless possibilities of an Africa that is truly free."

—By Kristin
Brzoznowski