Marvel Studios confirmed Black Panther 3
will debut on December 15, 2028, with David Jonsson cast as T’Challa’s son, Prince T’Challa II, following the 2022 film Wakanda Forever.
A New Black Panther, A Familiar Vision
Jonsson, known for his roles in “The Long Walk” and “Industry,” will portray Prince T’Challa II, the son of T’Challa and Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o), introduced as a child in Wakanda Forever.
The film will follow his coming-of-age journey, with Coogler returning to direct and oversee the transition of the Black Panther mantle. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,
released in 2022, earned $859 million globally and marked Shuri (Wright) as the new Black Panther after Boseman’s passing in 2020.
Coogler emphasized the film’s emotional stakes during the Comic-Con panel, stating, “The last time we were together, we introduced a character who was the son of the character, played by the great Chadwick Boseman. Our T’Challa in that film. And today I want to tell you guys in this next film, he grows up, comes of age, and we have to find an incredible actor…” Jonsson’s casting was met with enthusiastic applause, with the actor later expressing gratitude: Thank you, Ryan. Thank you, Kevin. Thank you to this amazing family that I have the honor and the privilege of blessing to join.
Box Office Legacy and Cultural Impact
The Black Panther franchise has already cemented its place in cinematic history. The 2018 original, starring Boseman, grossed $1.3 billion worldwide and became the first superhero film to earn a Best Picture Oscar nomination. It won three Oscars, including Best Costume Design and Best Original Score. The sequel, Wakanda Forever,
surpassed $850 million globally, with Angela Bassett’s performance earning the first Marvel Oscar nomination for an actor.
Denzel Washington’s Possible Role and Filmmaking Innovations
While Jonsson’s casting is confirmed, rumors about Denzel Washington’s involvement in Black Panther 3
have persisted. Coogler, who has long admired Washington, previously stated, Denzel is family at this point. I’ve been trying to work with him since day one. I think he’s the greatest living actor.
Though no official details were released during the Comic-Con panel, Deadline reported that Washington is in the cast as previously announced,
suggesting his role could be pivotal.
Coogler also revealed that Black Panther 3
will be shot on 70mm film, a first for the MCU. This decision, highlighted during the panel, underscores the film’s ambition to deliver a visually immersive experience. The director, who recently won an Oscar for “Sinners,” has positioned the project as a culmination of his vision for Wakanda, blending storytelling with technical innovation.
What Comes Next for the MCU?
Black Panther 3
will follow next year’s Avengers: Doomsday,
which features Wright as Black Panther and Robert Downey Jr. as Victor Von Doom. The film’s release in December 2028 coincides with a broader MCU phase, including the debut of “Ghost Rider” starring Ryan Gosling.
Related reading
