In just a few days, fans will get to meetMarvel Studios' latest superhero inShang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Fan expectations for the film are quite high at this point, especially considering how the early reviews are mostly positive. What fans are most looking forward to, however, is Simu Liu’s performance as the titular character, and there seems to be an interesting backstory in how the star ofKim’s Conveniencewas selected for the role.
While one would assume that Liu was the first to be cast as part of the project, considering he would be playing the lead role, it turns out that Awkwafina was cast asShang-Chi’s best friend Katybefore anyone else. When the studio held auditions to cast the life-changing role of Shang-Chi, Awkwafina was invited to participate in the selection process.
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In an interview withThe Hollywood Reporter, Awkwafina spoke about her role in Liu being cast for the film. She was asked by the studio to come in and read lines with the actors during what could potentially be one of the most important auditions of their lives. She doesn’t reveal how many other actors were present but does recall reading lines with Liu while they were both feeling quite nervous. That is a given considering the selection was for the role of a lifetime, as the actor would get to lead the cast ofShang-Chiin the first Asian-led superhero filmin the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
On the day that Liu came in, Awkwafina states that she and the members of the studio knew immediately that “he was Shang-Chi from the jump.” The purpose of the read was to test the chemistry between Katy and Shaun, a.k.a. Shang-Chi. The two are shown to be best friends for 10 years in the film, who go ona life-changing journey together inShang-Chi.While they first appear as parking valets for a San Francisco hotel, where they decide to go on a joyride in somebody else’s car, they grow together to become a part of a team that could potentially save the world.
In a previously released Marvel featurette, Awkwafina was heard talking about Liu’s passion for the character. She believes that the role was made for Liu, as there could be no one else who would bring the same amount of excitement to the role.
She doesn’t seem too off as it is already known thatLiu tweeted to Marvel to discuss Shang-Chiwhen the studio had just confirmed that it would be working on the film. It remains to be seen how the fans will view his contribution to the role.
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Ringspremieres in theaters on Jul 08, 2025.
