Black Panther 3 is Ryan Coogler's Next Movie: All the Details About Wakanda's Future

Get ready for another journey to Wakanda! Director Ryan Coogler has officially confirmed his next big-screen project, and it's the highly anticipated third installment of the Black Panther saga.

TL;DR: Quick Bites for the Busy Fan

• Director Ryan Coogler has confirmed that Black Panther 3 is his next feature film after his recent success with Sinners.
• Academy Award winner Denzel Washington is officially slated for a role in the upcoming sequel, though his character remains a mystery.
• The film is expected to pick up after the Multiverse Saga finale, with Shuri (Letitia Wright) continuing her role as the primary Black Panther.

Picture this: you've just walked out of a movie theater, buzzing from Ryan Coogler's latest triumph, the critically acclaimed Sinners. You're wondering, "What could possibly be next for such a visionary director?" If your mind immediately leaped to Wakanda, you're on the same wavelength as many Marvel fans, because Coogler himself has now confirmed it: Black Panther 3 is his next movie.

This news comes directly from the director, who spoke at Deadline's Contenders Film: Los Angeles event on November 15, 2025. After a bit of playful teasing, Coogler definitively stated his plans to continue the story of Wakanda, a project that's been quietly brewing in the background.

Ryan Coogler is Deeply Engaged in Shaping Wakanda's Future

For fans who've been eagerly awaiting solid news on the third Black Panther film, Coogler’s confirmation is a huge relief. He was asked directly about how quickly he'd tackle Black Panther 3, and his response was clear, despite a bit of initial playful dodging.

"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, speaking at Deadline's Contenders Film: Los Angeles (November 15, 2025)

Source: Deadline, "Ryan Coogler Confirms ‘Black Panther 3’ Is His “Next Movie”", November 15, 2025

This isn't just a casual nod; it's a firm commitment from the director who successfully launched the franchise in 2018 and helmed its emotional 2022 sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. His unique creative voice has been central to the franchise's success, making his return a vital component for its future.

The Denzel Washington Factor: A Legendary Addition to the Wakandan Cast

Adding another layer of excitement, legendary actor Denzel Washington has been confirmed for a role in Black Panther 3. This news first surfaced in November 2024 when Washington himself "let it slip" during an interview promoting Gladiator II, stating that Coogler was "writing a part for me."

Coogler has since confirmed this, expressing his immense desire to collaborate with the two-time Oscar winner. "I'm dying to work with Denzel," Coogler shared, adding, "I got every intention of working with him in that movie, and as long as he's interested – it's going to happen."

While Washington's character remains a closely guarded secret, his involvement elevates the film's star power significantly. Imagine the gravitas he could bring to Wakanda – perhaps a wise elder, a powerful new ally, or even an unexpected antagonist. The possibilities are thrilling to consider.

Shuri's Mantle: Confirming the Continued Reign of a New Black Panther

Following the tragic passing of Chadwick Boseman in August 2020, the mantle of Black Panther was passed to King T'Challa's brilliant sister, Shuri, portrayed by Letitia Wright, in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. This decision honored Boseman's legacy, with the film dedicated to his memory, and firmly established Shuri as the new protector of Wakanda.

For Black Panther 3, reports and even a rumored synopsis for a film titled "Shadows of Wakanda" (though unofficial) suggest that Shuri will continue to be the primary Black Panther. This means fans can expect to see her further evolve in the role, likely defending her nation from new threats post-Multiverse Saga.

Other familiar faces like Danai Gurira's Okoye, Winston Duke's M'Baku, and Lupita Nyong'o's Nakia are also expected to return, providing continuity and strength to Wakanda's leadership. The film will build on the foundation laid by Wakanda Forever, which impressively earned $859.2 million worldwide, showcasing the enduring appeal of the franchise even without its original lead.

The Balancing Act of Coogler's "Next Movie": A Minor Conundrum

While Coogler's statement about Black Panther 3 being his "next movie" is exciting, it's worth noting a small, interesting detail. Just a few months prior, in April, Coogler had mentioned working on an X-Files TV show, describing it as "immediately next." This brings up a common challenge for busy filmmakers: managing multiple high-profile projects.

This means while Black Panther 3 is indeed his next feature film, we might see the X-Files series (reportedly for Disney+) come out first. Think of it as a creative pit stop before the big race back to Wakanda. This scenario doesn't negate his commitment to the Marvel film but simply adjusts the timeline for eager fans.

Example: The Fan Debate

Imagine a scenario: Sarah, a huge Marvel fan, is chatting with her friends over coffee. "Did you hear Coogler said BP3 is next?" she exclaims. Her friend, Ben, who keeps up with industry news, replies, "Yeah, but he also mentioned that X-Files show. He's a busy guy, so 'next movie' might mean after he wraps the show. We still might have to wait a bit, but it's great to know it's definitely on his radar!" This common fan discussion highlights the anticipation mixed with realistic expectations.

Unconfirmed Titles and Release Dates: Patience is a Wakandan Virtue

Regarding specifics like an official title or release date, Marvel Studios continues to maintain its typical secrecy. While some production lists and rumor mills have floated "Shadows of Wakanda" as a potential title and a February 2028 release date, these remain unconfirmed. Marvel rarely announces these details far in advance, especially with major upcoming films like the Avengers installments in 2026 and 2027 still looming.

The film is widely anticipated to kick off the MCU's Phase 7, meaning it would likely arrive sometime after Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027. If the rumored 2028 target holds, production would likely begin in early 2027. So, while the director is confirmed and a star actor is onboard, official details for when we can actually buy tickets are still a ways off.

There have also been whispers about Damson Idris potentially joining the cast, possibly as an alternate-universe T'Challa or another new character. While Idris neither confirmed nor denied talks, expressing he would gladly accept an offer, these are still speculative. The focus right now firmly remains on Shuri's journey and the established legacy.

Practical Takeaways for Every Black Panther Fan

• Director's Chair Secured: Ryan Coogler is definitively returning to direct, ensuring continuity and his signature storytelling for Black Panther 3.
• A-List Talent Joins: Denzel Washington's casting is confirmed, promising a powerful new presence in the Wakandan narrative, though his role is under wraps.
• Shuri's Reign Continues: Expect Letitia Wright's Shuri to remain at the forefront as Black Panther, evolving further after the events of Wakanda Forever and the Multiverse Saga.
• Patience, Young Grasshoppers: While confirmed, official release dates and plot details are still unannounced. The film is likely positioned for the MCU's Phase 7, following major Avengers events.
• Rumors Abound: Take speculative titles (like "Shadows of Wakanda") and specific release years with a grain of salt until Marvel Studios makes formal announcements.

FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Black Panther 3 Answered

When is Black Panther 3 expected to be released?

While there is no official release date from Marvel Studios, rumors suggest it could be as early as February 2028, likely as part of the MCU's Phase 7, after Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027.

Will Chadwick Boseman's T'Challa be recast for Black Panther 3?

No, Marvel Studios has maintained its decision not to recast T'Challa. The story continues with Letitia Wright's Shuri as the primary Black Panther, honoring Chadwick Boseman's legacy.

Who is confirmed to be in the cast of Black Panther 3 so far?

Ryan Coogler is confirmed as the director, and Denzel Washington has confirmed he will have a role in the film. Letitia Wright is expected to reprise her role as Shuri.

What is Ryan Coogler's other "next project" that might precede Black Panther 3?

Ryan Coogler has mentioned working on an X-Files TV show, describing it as "immediately next." This TV project might be completed before he begins principal photography on Black Panther 3, even though the latter is his "next movie."

Sources:

• Deadline: Ryan Coogler Confirms ‘Black Panther 3’ Is His “Next Movie” (November 15, 2025)
• Yahoo: Is the Black Panther 3 title Shadows of Wakanda? (Undated, referencing Nov 2024 Denzel Washington interview)
• HT Infotainment Desk: Ryan Coogler hints he could direct Marvel’s Black Panther 3: ‘We’re working on it hard’ (November 16, 2025)
• CinemaBlend: Ryan Coogler Confirmed That Black Panther 3 Is His Next Movie, But I Don’t Think That Means It’s Next (Undated, referencing Nov 15, 2025 Coogler interview & April Last Podcast On The Left interview)
• ScreenRant: Black Panther 3 Confirmed As Ryan Coogler's Next Movie In Massive MCU Update (Undated, referencing Nov 15, 2025 Coogler interview & Aug 2025 Denzel Washington interview)
• CBR: A New Black Panther 3 Report Shuts Down Those T'Challa Recast Rumors (Undated)
• ComicBookMovie.com: Rumor: Has Black Panther 3's Title Been Revealed? Here's What You Need To Know (November 11, 2025)
• Just Jared: Ryan Coogler is Shifting His Focus to 'Black Panther 3' (November 15, 2025)
• Cinema Express: Ryan Coogler confirms Black Panther 3 is actively in development: 'It’s the next one…' (November 16, 2025)
• World of Reel: ‘Black Panther 3’ Is Ryan Coogler’s Next Movie (Undated)