Like practically every other actor in Hollywood, Game of Thrones star Kit Harington has joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe. But unlike most other stars, Harington’s previous acting experience makes him uniquely suited for his superhero role.
The Jon Snow actor will portray the character Dane Whitman, AKA the Black Knight, in next year’s ensemble superhero film Eternals. The movie is about a group of ancient immortal beings to be played by the likes of Salma Hayek, Angelina Jolie, Kumail Nanjiani, Brian Tyree Henry, Gemma Chan, and Game of Thrones co-star Richard Madden. Harington’s character is not an Eternal, but is arguably a more famous Marvel hero than any of them.
In Marvel Comics, Dane Whitman is the best known in a long line of Black Knights, special protectors that go back to the time of King Arthur. The Black Knight wields a magical sword called the Ebony Blade which can cut through virtually any substance, as well as block and absorb nearly all attacks. He also traditionally rides a genetically-modified winged horse called Aragorn, which has also been the steed of Valkyrie (indeed, Valkyrie does ride a winged horse in Avengers: Endgame). Whitman had a lengthy romantic relationship with the Eternal known as Sersi (Chan in the film), which we assume will make it into the Eternals movie. Both Black Knight and Sersi were also members of The Avengers together, with most of Black Knight’s comic history having occurred with the superhero group. Therefore, it seems likely that Harington’s Black Knight will eventually join a new incarnation of the team in the MCU as well.
The idea of a mystical knight joining the MCU is certainly exciting, but if you prefer your superheroes a bit more down to Earth, then be sure and check out Chuck Norris in Walker, Texas Ranger on CHARGE!
