Ryan Coogler wants Denzel Washington in Black Panther 3-badly.
The 38-year-old filmmaker confirmed on the Nightcap podcast that he’s actively working on bringing the Oscar-winning actor into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, saying, “I’m dying to work with Denzel and I’m hoping we can make that happen. I got every intention of working with him in that movie and as long as he’s interested – it’s going to happen.”
Coogler, who directed both Black Panther and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, called Washington a “living legend” and praised him as a great mentor who’s always “looking out for us.”
Fans may remember that Denzel himself accidentally spilled the news that Coogler was writing a role for him. In a recent interview with Australia’s Today show, the 70-year-old actor casually included Black Panther 3 on a list of projects he wanted to complete before retirement. Alongside a reimagining of Othello, a Hannibal epic, and a Steve McQueen film, he name-dropped Coogler’s upcoming Marvel project-before admitting later that he may have said too much.
“I called [Ryan] and apologised for talking about the movie,” Denzel told Variety‘s Awards Circuit Podcast. “He’s still Ryan-humble and full of ideas. Whatever he writes, I’ll read.”
Ryan Coogler, meanwhile, teased that fans won’t have to wait long for Black Panther 3, although a release date hasn’t been announced yet. Marvel has yet to confirm full casting, but Letitia Wright is expected to return as Shuri, continuing her journey as Wakanda’s new protector.
Back in 2023, Wright hinted at big things ahead for her character. “There’s a lot coming up,” she told The View. “Shuri is one of my favorite characters… I’m so grateful for her.”
If Denzel Washington does join the Black Panther universe, it would mark his first role in a Marvel film-and a massive moment for fans who’ve long hoped to see him in the MCU. And if Coogler has anything to say about it, it’s not a matter of if-it’s when.
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