“Black Panther 3”: A New Legend Rises in Wakanda?

After the massive success of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022), fans have been eagerly awaiting official confirmation of the next installment. While Marvel Studios has yet to announce a release date or even a working title, recent developments suggest that Black Panther 3 is quietly taking shape—with names attached that could redefine the Marvel Cinematic Universe: Denzel Washington and Ryan Coogler.

Denzel Washington Joins the Legacy

In a headline-making reveal, director Ryan Coogler confirmed that he has written a role specifically for Denzel Washington in the upcoming film. “He’s the greatest living actor,” Coogler said, hinting at the scale and emotional depth he envisions for the sequel.

Washington himself confirmed his involvement in Black Panther 3 in a 2024 interview, sparking speculation across the fandom. Could he play an elder statesman of Wakanda? A spirit of the ancestors? Or even Mosi—the very first Black Panther from Wakandan legend? The possibilities are as vast as they are exciting.

Will Smith in the Cast? Not Quite.

Fan-made trailers featuring Will Smith and Denzel Washington have gone viral online, giving the impression that both stars are confirmed. However, these videos are unofficial and not affiliated with Marvel Studios. As of now, there is no credible evidence that Will Smith will appear in the film.

A New Power Dynamic: M’Baku Rules, Shuri Shadows

Based on where the MCU currently stands, M’Baku appears to have taken the throne of Wakanda, while Shuri continues as the Black Panther—but no longer as queen. This creates fertile ground for a dramatic conflict between tradition and innovation, leadership and legacy.

But perhaps the most significant narrative thread lies in the post-credit scene of Wakanda Forever, which introduced Toussaint—the son of T’Challa and Nakia. Raised in secret, the young boy carries the royal bloodline and the symbolic weight of his father’s name. Could he be the next Black Panther? Or a bridge to a new era?

“Eyes of Wakanda”: A Glimpse Into the Past

While Black Panther 3 remains in development, fans won’t be left completely in the dark. An upcoming animated series titled Eyes of Wakanda is set to premiere on Disney+ in 2025, and will explore the deep history and legends of Wakanda. The series may serve as a thematic and narrative lead-in to what’s coming next in the film saga.

The Stakes Have Never Been Higher

If Ryan Coogler’s vision combines with Denzel Washington’s gravitas, Black Panther 3 may transcend the superhero genre. It has the potential to be a spiritual and emotional reckoning—not just for Wakanda, but for Marvel itself.

And if Denzel indeed portrays a figure from Wakanda’s ancestral past, the film won’t just ask who wears the suit—it will ask who is worthy of carrying a nation’s soul.