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Coogler confirms Black Panther 3 is next
Ryan Coogler has put months of speculation to rest: Black Panther 3 will be his next film. After the release of Sinners and a flurry of rumors linking him to projects from an X-Files reboot to Blade and even X‑Men material, the acclaimed director made a clear statement that Marvel's next Wakandan chapter is officially on his slate.
Coogler told reporters he couldn’t say much at first, but now he’s ready to confirm that the project is “very much” happening and that he’s actively working on it. Industry whispers — including a report from Jeff Snider — place a possible release in February 2028 with production beginning in 2027. If true, Marvel Studios is mapping out a thoughtful return to Wakanda that aims to build on what worked in the first two films while carving new ground for the franchise.
Casting notes, leaks and the Denzel moment
One of the biggest surprises came when Denzel Washington, amid publicity for Gladiator II in November 2024, offhandedly mentioned that Coogler was writing a role for him in the next Black Panther. Marvel's tight-lipped policy meant the studio quickly stepped in to hush any premature details, but Coogler later expressed enthusiasm about the possibility: he called Washington “a living legend” and a potential mentor figure for the cast.
Other casting rumors include Damson Idris (Snowfall) as an older Toussaint — the grown son of T'Challa introduced at the end of Wakanda Forever. Some outlets have even linked Idris’ character to larger Marvel set pieces like Avengers: Doomsday or Secret Wars. Returning leads are also expected: Letitia Wright (Shuri), Lupita Nyong'o (Nakia), Winston Duke (M'Baku) and Danai Gurira (Okoye) are widely reported to be in the conversation if schedules align.
How this film fits Coogler’s body of work
Comparing Black Panther 3 to Coogler’s earlier work highlights what fans can hope for: character-driven storytelling that balances blockbuster spectacle with intimate cultural detail. From Fruitvale Station to the first Black Panther and Wakanda Forever, Coogler has repeatedly blended social themes with genre filmmaking — a pattern that suggests this next chapter will be more than just another superhero sequel.
There are creative challenges, too. The franchise must honor Chadwick Boseman’s legacy, evolve Wakandan politics and satisfy MCU continuity, all while offering fresh stakes for worldwide audiences.
Industry context and fan reaction
Superhero cinema is in a transitional phase, with studios experimenting across TV and film to keep long-running universes coherent. Black Panther remains one of Marvel's most culturally significant properties, and Coogler’s continued involvement signals Marvel’s commitment to thoughtful leadership on the project. Fans on social platforms have expressed cautious excitement — hopeful about the cast and Coogler’s vision, but watchful for how the film handles legacy characters.
In short, Black Panther 3 is moving from rumor to reality. With Coogler at the helm and heavyweight names attached, expectations are high: the studio will need to balance spectacle, legacy and emotional truth to deliver a sequel worthy of Wakanda’s stature.
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