The future of Jonathan Majors’ Kang the Conqueror in the Marvel Cinematic Universe hangs in uncertainty, but one acclaimed actor has emerged as a perfect potential replacement thanks to some striking new fan art.

Two-time Oscar winner Denzel Washington was recently visualized as Kang the Conqueror in art that quickly went viral among Marvel fans.

Names like Will Smith also emerged for the role, but apparently, Washington beats them all. Many believe the veteran performer has all the presence and gravitas needed to take over the iconic villain role if Marvel Studios opts to recast following Majors’ legal issues.

Does Denzel Washington Have What It Takes to Lead the MCU’s Multiverse Saga?

Denzel Washington as Kang the Conqueror – ai art

Kang the Conqueror is set to be the overarching villain of the MCU’s entire Multiverse Saga. But with Jonathan Majors facing serious criminal charges, his future as the iconic time-traveling warlord remains cloudy.

If Marvel opts to recast, Denzel Washington has become a clear fan favorite thanks to brilliant art portraying him in Kang’s distinctive armor and green hooded cape.

Denzel is no stranger to complex villains, having won his Best Actor Oscar for playing crooked cop Alonzo Harris in Training Day. And his recent turn in The Tragedy of Macbeth proved he still possesses an unmatched screen presence even in his late 60s.

Many believe the legendary actor has precisely the right balance of gravitas, intensity, and charisma to compellingly anchor the next 3 phases of the MCU as its supreme antagonist. And the striking new fan art offers a taste of how fiercely Denzel could conquer the role of Kang.

What Other Stars Have Been Fan-Cast?

Will Smith in Emancipation

Denzel Washington isn’t the only performer suggested by fans to potentially take over as Kang. Stars like Will Smith, John Boyega, LaKeith Stanfield, and even Denzel’s own son, John David Washington, have been floated as possibilities.

But Denzel’s portrayal in the viral art images catapulted him to the top of most wish lists. And it’s easy to see why, with his recent explosion of internet fame in the “Lovers Rock” meme proving how beloved Denzel remains. After playing some of the most iconic antiheroes in cinema history, the legendary actor seems destined to become the MCU’s next great villain.

Jonathan Majors has been dropped as Kang the Conquerer

Of course, Jonathan Majors’ Kang the Conqueror’s future hasn’t been decided yet, with his court case still ongoing. But if Marvel Studios does opt to recast and take the character in a new direction, they’d have a conquering choice in Denzel Washington.