Ryan Coogler Black Panther 3 developments have officially been confirmed, as the acclaimed director announced that work is underway on the highly anticipated sequel. Speaking at Deadline Contenders, Coogler indicated the sequel is in active development, solidifying its place in Marvel Studios’ ongoing plans for the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
Coogler Provides Key Update on Third Film
During his recent appearance, Ryan Coogler was questioned about whether Black Panther 3 would be his next feature film. While careful with his words, Coogler confirmed the film’s progress:
“If it were anyone but you, I would say I could neither confirm or deny. But we’re working on it, we’re working on it hard…It’s the next movie.”
– Ryan Coogler, Director
This statement provides the clearest indication yet that Black Panther 3 is moving forward and is slated as Coogler’s next directorial project.
Returning Cast and Future Storylines
After the events of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Letitia Wright will continue her role as Shuri, taking up the Black Panther mantle. Wright and the rest of the cast finished their principal photography for Avengers: Doomsday on September 19, 2025, setting the stage for their ongoing presence in the MCU.
Although updates on Black Panther 3 have emerged gradually over the past years, the franchise remains central to Marvel Studios’ plans. The 2022 installment achieved significant box office success with $859.2 million worldwide, fueling audience anticipation for the sequel. Industry watchers expect Black Panther 3 to be scheduled for Phase 7, following the conclusion of The Multiverse Saga currently occupying Marvel’s Phase 6 slate.
Denzel Washington’s Mystery Role and The Franchise’s Next Era
A significant new development is Denzel Washington joining the MCU in Black Panther 3. Washington disclosed that Coogler is crafting a role specifically for him. In August 2025, Washington hinted at the secrecy surrounding his involvement, telling ScreenRant’s Liam Crowley that the details of his character are private: “That’s between me and Ryan.”
Based on current scheduling, if Black Panther 3 follows the production of Avengers: Secret Wars and takes place in Phase 7, narrative changes resulting from the Phase 6 finale could dramatically influence Wakanda’s future on screen. As the MCU prepares for a creative reset after the scheduled 2027 installment, the depiction of Wakanda and its characters may shift significantly, offering a new vision for fans.
Uncertain Release Date for the Sequel
Despite the confirmed development, Black Panther 3 does not yet have an official release date. Marvel Studios has not revealed further details on the timeline, but ongoing work from Ryan Coogler and his cast signals that the beloved franchise will return in the next era of the MCU.
Fans of Ryan Coogler Black Panther 3 can expect major announcements as Marvel transitions from The Multiverse Saga to new storylines, promising another chapter for Wakanda’s heroes and its ever-expanding universe.
Ryan Coogler confirms ‘Black Panther 3’ is his next film #DeadlineContenders pic.twitter.com/15OH9hpMPY
— Deadline (@DEADLINE) November 15, 2025
