Director Ryan Coogler Confirms Denzel Washington’s Role in ‘Black Panther 3’

The Marvel Cinematic Universe is about to get a major boost with a legendary actor stepping into the world of Wakanda. Director Ryan Coogler is hard at work on the next chapter of the ‘Black Panther’ saga, a franchise that has captivated audiences with its rich storytelling and cultural impact.

Since the heartbreaking loss of Chadwick Boseman, the series has faced big questions about its future, but Coogler’s vision continues to drive it forward. His latest move has sparked excitement across the board.

‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’, released in 2022, proved the franchise could carry on after Boseman’s passing, earning over $850 million at the global box office. It was a bold step, focusing on Letitia Wright’s Shuri as she took up the mantle of Black Panther. The film balanced grief with new energy, introducing characters like Dominique Thorne’s Riri Williams. Now, with the third film in development, Coogler is pulling out all the stops to keep the momentum going.

Denzel Washington will star in ‘Black Panther 3’, as confirmed by Coogler during a recent appearance on the 7PM in Brooklyn With Carmelo Anthony podcast. The news first broke when Washington himself let it slip in November 2024 while promoting ‘Gladiator II’.

He later apologized to Coogler for spilling the beans early, but the director didn’t mind, praising the actor as a ‘living legend’ and someone he’s wanted to work with for years. Their past collaboration on ‘Fruitvale Station’ in 2013 makes this reunion especially exciting.

What role Washington will play remains a mystery. Some speculate he could be a formidable villain, while others wonder if he might take on a heroic figure, perhaps tied to Wakanda’s history. Given his range—seen in films like ‘Training Day’ and ‘Malcolm X’—he could bring depth to any character.

At 70, Washington is selective about his projects, recently starring in ‘Gladiator II’ and working with Spike Lee on ‘High and Low’, a remake of a 1963 Akira Kurosawa thriller. He’s also set to tackle Shakespeare’s ‘Othello’ and ‘King Lear’ before retiring.

The addition of Washington isn’t the only reason to be excited. Coogler hinted that ‘Black Panther 3’ is coming ‘not long’ from now, suggesting a release could land between ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ in 2026 and ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ in 2027.

While Marvel hasn’t officially announced the film, its track record—over $2 billion combined from the first two movies—makes it a safe bet. I can’t wait to see how Washington’s presence elevates Wakanda’s next chapter.