New Black Panther Takes the Lead in Upcoming Black Panther 3

At San Diego Comic-Con, Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige and writer-director Ryan Coogler took the stage to share exciting news beyond just Avengers: Doomsday. They confirmed that a third Black Panther film is officially in development, and it will introduce T’Challa’s son as the new Black Panther.

Titled Black Panther 3, the film is set to hit theaters on December 15, 2028. Coogler will return to direct, opting for a larger format celluloid film instead of digital. The character of T’Challa’s son, who made his debut in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, will take on a more significant role, portrayed by David Jonsson (known for Alien: Romulus and The Long Walk). He will step into the mantle of the Black Panther.

Details about the film’s storyline remain scarce for now.

Coogler has previously expressed his desire to create a third Black Panther installment, but his focus has been on other projects, including an X-Files reboot and the acclaimed series Sinners. Now, it appears that everything is falling into place, and Coogler, along with Marvel Studios, is gearing up to start filming the first Black Panther movie since 2022.

The last film in the series, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, featured Letitia Wright’s character Shuri taking on the Black Panther role. This installment served as a heartfelt tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman and his character, T’Challa. Despite its challenging journey to the screen, Wakanda Forever achieved impressive box office success, grossing $859 million worldwide.

One notable absence from the panel was Denzel Washington, who had previously hinted at being involved in the next Black Panther film. While promoting Gladiator 2 in 2024, he mentioned that Coogler was writing a role for him in Black Panther 3. As of now, it’s unclear if he will actually appear in the movie.

Fans can look forward to seeing Shuri and other familiar characters from the Black Panther series in Avengers: Doomsday, which is scheduled for release on December 18. Black Panther 3 will follow on December 15, 2028, after Avengers: Secret Wars and Ghost Rider.