Denzel Washington has confirmed that he will star in Black Panther 3, with director Ryan Coogler currently writing a role specifically for the legendary actor. Speaking on Australia’s Today Show, Washington expressed his excitement about joining the Marvel franchise, emphasizing his focus on working with exceptional filmmakers at this stage in his career. He shared that the collaboration aligns with his goal of exploring projects he hasn’t done before, stating, “I don’t know how many more films I’m going to make—it’s probably not that many. I want to do things I haven’t done.” Marvel has yet to officially announce the sequel, but the anticipation surrounding the next chapter of the franchise makes it a likely addition to the MCU’s slate.
Washington’s involvement is especially meaningful given his connection to the late Chadwick Boseman, who credited Washington for helping launch his career by funding his summer acting school tuition. Boseman once famously said, “There is no Black Panther without Denzel Washington,” and during the 2019 AFI Life Achievement Award ceremony, he honored Washington with a moving tribute. This full-circle moment adds a layer of emotional depth to Washington’s casting, with fans eager to see how Coogler will integrate him into the vibrant and culturally significant world of Wakanda.
In addition to Black Panther 3, Washington has several ambitious projects lined up before his planned retirement, including a Broadway production of Othello with Jake Gyllenhaal and a collaboration with director Steve McQueen. Reflecting on his career, Washington emphasized his desire to continue working on meaningful stories with visionary creators. His addition to Black Panther 3 not only brings unparalleled star power but also reinforces the franchise’s legacy of elevating Black talent and storytelling, ensuring the next installment will be as impactful as its predecessors.