Ryan Coogler has officially confirmed a role in Black Panther 3 has been earmarked for Denzel Washington, solidifying years of behind-the-scenes talks between the two Hollywood heavyweights.
During an appearance on the 7PM in Brooklyn podcast, Coogler revealed that Washington’s name isn’t just wishful thinking—it’s already part of the plan.
“There’s no fiction out there,” Coogler said. “Denzel is family at this point… I’ve been trying to work with him since day one.”
The 39-year-old filmmaker, who directed the 2018 Black Panther and its 2022 follow-up, Wakanda Forever, has long admired the 2x-Academy Award winner.
“I think he’s the greatest living actor, and in terms of what he means to our culture, forget about it,” he added. “I’ve been talking to him about this to him for a long time.”
Coogler admitted he didn’t expect Washington to publicly hint at the role so soon.
“I was surprised that when he mentioned [Black Panther 3], but it’s not like it’s not true.”
Washington first teased the collaboration last year while promoting Gladiator 2, telling the press that Coogler was “writing a part for me in the next Black Panther.”
The Black Panther franchise has consistently drawn top-tier talent. The late Chadwick Boseman, who portrayed T’Challa, led the first two films before his death in 2020 at the age of 43.
The ensemble cast has included Oscar winners Forest Whitaker, Lupita Nyong’o and Angela Bassett, as well as Michael B. Jordan and Letitia Wright.
Marvel Studios has yet to announce a release date for Black Panther 3.