Denzel Washington joining Black Panther 3 in MCU may finally be a reality, as director Ryan Coogler confirmed he has a role in mind for the iconic actor. During a recent appearance on the “7PM in Brooklyn” podcast, Coogler expressed his excitement about working with Washington, highlighting their personal connection and ongoing discussions about this major Marvel Cinematic Universe collaboration.
Coogler’s Vision for Denzel Washington in Black Panther 3
Ryan Coogler’s connection to Denzel Washington runs deep, with the director sharing that he sees the Oscar-winner as family and has always aspired to work with him on a film project. On the podcast, Coogler responded directly to questions about Washington’s earlier comments from the Gladiator II press tour. He revealed his eagerness to bring Washington into the Marvel universe, an idea he has apparently discussed at length with the star over the years. These hopes have now become concrete plans, as Coogler confirmed his intent to create a suitable role for Washington in Black Panther 3.
“Denzel is family at this point … 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. I’ve been talking to him about this to him for a long time … I was surprised when he mentioned it, but it’s not like it’s not true.”
—Ryan Coogler, Director
This candid admission marks a shift from previous speculation to actual development, with Coogler acknowledging Washington’s influence and legacy in Hollywood as a driving force for their collaboration. The excitement from both sides of this partnership only adds to the anticipation among fans of both the MCU and Washington’s storied career.
Momentum Builds as Washington Signals Interest
Last November, anticipation grew when Denzel Washington hinted that Coogler had crafted a role specifically for him in Black Panther 3. Although Washington later phoned the director to apologize for revealing this information, his comments ignited widespread excitement about his potential Marvel debut. Producer Nate Moore has also publicly voiced his support, indicating that, if Washington accepts the offer, he will absolutely be featured in the upcoming film. At this stage, details of Washington’s character remain strictly confidential, with neither the filmmakers nor the studio confirming the specific Marvel role he could portray.
The casting of such an acclaimed performer opens up a range of possibilities for Black Panther 3, whether Washington appears as a Wakandan elder, a king, a noble hero, or even a formidable villain. Marvel Comics’ rich roster provides countless options where Washington’s talents would shine. Given Washington’s reputation for selecting projects carefully—especially as he contemplates retirement—a collaboration with Coogler on this scale could be a remarkable late-career highlight.
Black Panther 3’s Development and Schedule Status
While the official production timeline for Black Panther 3 remains uncertain, the film is currently in development, with Ryan Coogler preparing to refocus his attention on the project now that he has completed his original feature, Sinners. Production was initially delayed as Coogler prioritized Sinners, but the Marvel sequel is now moving closer to active development. According to Nate Moore, audiences should not expect Black Panther 3 until after Avengers: Secret Wars, signaling the film will arrive in the post-Multiverse Saga phase of the franchise.
This timing reflects changes in Marvel Studios’ broader release strategy, as Disney has recently scaled back its movie and streaming output. The studio removed three untitled Marvel films from its schedule, narrowing the window for future MCU releases. As it stands, Black Panther 3 is most likely to premiere during one of the reserved 2028 release dates for new Marvel titles, placing it among the first projects to usher in a new MCU era.
Expectations for Washington’s Role and Its MCU Impact
Although neither Ryan Coogler nor Marvel Studios have disclosed details about the exact role envisioned for Denzel Washington, his inclusion would be a major milestone for both Black Panther 3 and the MCU as a whole. Washington’s versatility as an actor positions him to redefine a Marvel Comics character, whether as an inspiring Wakandan figure or a complex villain.
Given Denzel Washington’s ongoing considerations about retirement and his selectiveness regarding new roles, his involvement is likely to be for a single film rather than a recurring part in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Coogler’s passion and determination to bring Washington to this installment enhances fan interest and raises expectations for the film’s narrative ambition and cultural resonance.
Future Prospects and Viewer Anticipation
The possibility of Denzel Washington joining Black Panther 3 in MCU has sparked discussion throughout the entertainment community and among Marvel fans worldwide. As Disney continues to carefully curate its blockbuster schedule and with the conclusion of the Multiverse Saga approaching, Black Panther 3 could stand as a watershed moment in Marvel storytelling.
While audiences await formal casting announcements and plot revelations, the creative partnership between Coogler and Washington holds the promise of an event film that breaks new ground in superhero cinema. With Marvel’s focus shifting to quality over quantity and the potential of Washington’s magnetic screen presence, Black Panther 3 is poised to be one of the most anticipated chapters in the franchise’s history.
