Ryan Coogler has officially stated that his next directorial project will be Black Panther 3, ensuring the continuation of Marvel’s celebrated Wakanda saga beyond Phase 6. The announcement affirms that the Ryan Coogler Black Panther 3 project is already underway, though further plot or casting details remain under wraps due to interconnected Marvel films on the horizon.
Anticipation Grows for the Next Wakanda Adventure
Following the critical and commercial triumph of the first two Black Panther movies, which amassed over $2.1 billion globally, Marvel Studios is poised to dig deeper into the mythology of Wakanda. While specifics about the new film are limited, Ryan Coogler’s statement leaves no doubt about the film’s priority. He confirmed,
“If it was anybody but you, I would say, ‘I can neither confirm or deny,’ but we’re working on it hard. […] Yeah, it’s the next movie.”
– Ryan Coogler, Director
The upcoming tale may hinge on the intricate timelines presented by Avengers: Doomsday and Secret Wars, with established Black Panther characters like Letitia Wright’s Shuri, Tenoch Huerta Mejía’s Namor, and Winston Duke’s M’Baku all closely tied to these ensemble features. As a result, further news about Black Panther 3 may only surface as these crossover projects near completion.
Ryan Coogler’s Career and Involvement in Marvel
Ryan Coogler started his filmmaking journey in 2009. Over the years, he has directed eight movies and contributed as a producer to fifteen projects, including one TV film and a television show. Notably, his recent film Sinners, featuring Michael B. Jordan and Hailee Steinfeld, has grossed $367 million worldwide. His creative portfolio also includes Fruitvale Station, Creed, and work on Marvel-related projects such as the Eyes of Wakanda and Ironheart series. Beyond his directorial work, Coogler has served as a producer on well-known titles including Creed II, Space Jam: A New Legacy, Creed III, and Anthem.
The Black Panther Legacy in Marvel’s Cinematic Universe
Debuting in 2018, Black Panther introduced audiences to T’Challa—portrayed by Chadwick Boseman—a hero who also rules Wakanda, an African nation rich in vibranium. First seen in Captain America: Civil War, T’Challa’s solo film broke grounds culturally and financially, earning over $1.3 billion worldwide. This achievement placed Black Panther among the MCU’s highest-earning films, ranking just behind Deadpool & Wolverine and above Iron Man 3.
The sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, premiered in 2022 and explored how Wakanda carries on after T’Challa’s death. The story centered on Shuri, played by Letitia Wright, as she assumed the role of Black Panther and processed the loss of her brother. The film amassed $859 million in global revenue and received five Academy Award nominations, including Best Supporting Actress for Angela Bassett. Familiar characters from these films are expected to return in Avengers: Doomsday, where the broader Marvel cast will come together for another team-up adventure.
Key Cast and Characters Returning to the Franchise
Among the returning stars, Letitia Wright’s Shuri leads the new era of Wakanda, while Tenoch Huerta Mejía’s Namor and Winston Duke’s M’Baku continue to be significant figures within the narrative. These actors, along with the late Chadwick Boseman’s enduring legacy as T’Challa, have established a robust foundation for the story’s future, fostering high anticipation for the next installment.
What Lies Ahead for Black Panther and Marvel Studios
Both Black Panther films remain available for streaming, fueling audience anticipation for updates about Black Panther 3. As Ryan Coogler commits to advancing Wakanda’s story despite the secrecy required by Marvel’s grand plans, fans are eager to see how the new film will expand the legacy established by its predecessors and honored by cast members like Angela Bassett. The continued appearances of Shuri, Namor, and M’Baku in future MCU projects underscore the significance of their roles within the ever-evolving universe. Marvel enthusiasts await further announcements about the direction, themes, and casting as Black Panther 3 moves from development to production.
