The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is gearing up for the next chapter in Wakanda with Black Panther 3, officially announced in December 2024. Fans of the franchise have been eagerly anticipating what comes next after the critical and box office success of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022). The upcoming installment promises to explore the legacy of T’Challa while introducing a powerful new cast addition: Denzel Washington.
Here’s everything you need to know about Black Panther 3, including the confirmed cast, director, plot speculations, and potential release information.
The Legacy of Black Panther
The original Black Panther (2018) and its sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022), are among Marvel’s most celebrated films. The 2018 film earned seven Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, and won three Oscars. It remains the third highest-grossing Marvel movie of all time.
Following the tragic death of Chadwick Boseman in August 2020, the MCU adapted the story to honor his legacy. In Wakanda Forever, Shuri (Letitia Wright), T’Challa’s sister, rises as the new Black Panther, continuing her brother’s heroic path while facing new challenges within Wakanda and beyond.
What Will Black Panther 3 Be About?
Plot details for Black Panther 3 remain tightly under wraps. However, fans can expect the story to build on the events of the last film. At the end of Wakanda Forever, Shuri chooses to leave Wakanda and step away from her royal title. M’Baku (Winston Duke) challenges the throne, while Shuri reconnects with Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o) in Haiti and meets Toussaint, Nakia and T’Challa’s son, who has been raised away from the pressures of the crown.
This setup suggests the next chapter could explore a potential battle for Wakanda’s throne between Toussaint and M’Baku, marking a new era for the Black Panther legacy.
Who Is Starring in Black Panther 3?
While the full cast has not yet been revealed, one major star has been confirmed: Denzel Washington. In a November 2024 interview, Washington revealed that director Ryan Coogler is writing a part specifically for him in the upcoming film.
“Denzel is family at this point,” Coogler told the 7PM in Brooklyn podcast. “I’ve been trying to work with him since day one. I think he’s the greatest living actor, and in terms of what he means to our culture, forget about it.”
Letitia Wright is expected to return as Shuri, and it’s likely that Winston Duke (M’Baku), Lupita Nyong’o (Nakia), and other original cast members from Wakanda Forever will reprise their roles. Angela Bassett, who earned an Oscar nomination for her role as Queen Ramonda, will likely not return following her character’s death in the previous film.
Will Ryan Gosling Join Black Panther 3?
Despite rumors fueled by online memes and comic storylines, Ryan Gosling has not been confirmed for Black Panther 3. Some speculation stemmed from Marvel’s comics, where the new leader of Wakanda in Marvel Knights: The World to Come is a white character. However, Gosling has expressed interest in other Marvel roles, such as Ghost Rider, but not Black Panther.
Director Ryan Coogler Returns
Ryan Coogler, the director of the first two Black Panther films, is officially returning to helm the third installment. Known for critically acclaimed films like Fruitvale Station, Creed, and Sinners (2025), Coogler is regarded as one of the most visionary filmmakers in Hollywood.
He confirmed in November 2025 that Black Panther 3 is his “next movie,” signaling that production will likely begin soon, although exact details on filming timelines have not yet been released.
When Will Black Panther 3 Be Released?
As of now, Black Panther 3 does not have an official release date. Fans can stay engaged with the world of Wakanda through Disney+’s animated series, Eyes of Wakanda, which debuted in August 2025. The series explores generations of warriors throughout Wakanda’s history, providing deeper insight into the country’s culture and heroic lineage.
What to Expect From the MCU’s Next Chapter
With Denzel Washington joining the cast and Coogler returning as director, expectations are high for Black Panther 3. Fans can anticipate a blend of action, political intrigue, and the rich cultural storytelling that made the first two films so beloved. Whether exploring Toussaint’s rise or new threats to Wakanda, the next installment promises to honor Chadwick Boseman’s legacy while expanding the MCU in bold, exciting ways.
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