Ryan Coogler has officially announced that his next movie will be Black Panther 3, addressing speculation about his upcoming projects and clarifying plans for the popular Marvel franchise. The confirmation puts recent rumors to rest, establishing that the celebrated director will return to Wakanda before exploring other opportunities, further centering the Ryan Coogler Black Panther 3 project in fan discussions and industry plans.
Director Ryan Coogler Addresses Film Speculation
After his recent work on Sinners and involvement in an X-Files television reboot, Ryan Coogler had been the subject of rumors linking him to a Blade project, a Sinners sequel, and potential X-Men opportunities. Amid the speculation, he has clarified his commitment, stating,
“But we’re working on it, we’re working on it hard…It’s the next movie.”
— Ryan Coogler, Director, confirming that Black Panther 3 is indeed his next film.
This statement, made during a public appearance in Oakland, CA, directly responds to industry chatter and confirms to fans that his immediate focus remains on the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The director’s clear commitment assures audiences that the Black Panther series will move forward with his leadership.
Rumors Surrounding Black Panther 3’s Casting and Production
In recent months, scooper Jeff Sneider fueled talk about Black Panther 3 by suggesting a planned release in February 2028 and a production start in 2027. Other speculation surrounded Snowfall actor Damson Idris, who is rumored to portray a grown-up Toussaint—T’Challa’s son introduced in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever—in major crossover events such as Avengers: Doomsday or Secret Wars. While such casting information remains unofficial, community interest remains high.
Amid these rumors, one detail has been confirmed about the upcoming production: acclaimed actor Denzel Washington will have a role, though the specifics remain undisclosed. Washington mentioned his involvement inadvertently during a November 2024 interview, and although Marvel Studios is known for its secrecy, his comment stands as substantial evidence of his participation.
Denzel Washington Joins the Cast in a Key Role
Denzel Washington weighed in on his new Marvel role, stating,
“I’m only interested in working with the best. I don’t know how many more films I’m going to make; probably not that many. I want to do things I haven’t done…Ryan Coogler’s writing a part for me in the next Black Panther,”
— Denzel Washington, Actor, on joining Black Panther 3. After this revelation, Washington remained silent on the details, likely following Marvel Studios’ instructions to maintain secrecy around major castings.
Ryan Coogler has previously expressed his eagerness to work with Washington, remarking,
“I’m dying to work with Denzel and I’m hoping we can make that happen. I got every intention of working with him in that movie and as long as he’s interested – it’s going to happen…[He’s a] living legend and a great mentor…He’s all about looking out for us.”
— Ryan Coogler, Director, discussing his collaboration with Denzel Washington. This enthusiasm from both parties adds excitement to the developing project.
Main Cast Members Set to Return
Kevin Feige, President of Marvel Studios, has previously acknowledged the ongoing development of the third film. This announcement aligns with expectations that Letitia Wright, who portrays Shuri, will return, alongside Lupita Nyong’o (Nakia), Winston Duke (M’Baku), and Danai Gurira (Okoye). The involvement of these key figures, as well as the addition of Denzel Washington and possible new faces like Damson Idris, promises to continue the legacy established by the previous Black Panther films.
The confirmation from Coogler solidifies Marvel Studios’ commitment to expanding the Black Panther story following Wakanda Forever, with audiences now eagerly anticipating casting news, storyline details, and production milestones as 2027 approaches.
As anticipation builds for the next installment directed by Ryan Coogler, fans and the film industry alike await further developments on Black Panther 3, confident in the creative vision leading the project and its place in the evolving Marvel universe.
Ryan Coogler confirms ‘Black Panther 3’ is his next film #DeadlineContenders pic.twitter.com/15OH9hpMPY
— Deadline (@DEADLINE) November 15, 2025
