Denzel Washington confirmed for Black Panther 3 role, according to director Ryan Coogler, who has openly discussed his eagerness to make this long-anticipated Marvel collaboration a reality. The news surfaced during Coogler’s candid talk with NBA legend Carmelo Anthony, where he affirmed Washington’s pivotal involvement if the sequel moves forward.
Director Shares Details of Groundbreaking Casting
Ryan Coogler’s success as a filmmaker continues with his recent vampire horror movie, Sinners, which has enjoyed both box office success and widespread acclaim from critics and audiences. Building on his legacy with the Black Panther franchise, Coogler confirmed rumors of casting heavyweight Denzel Washington as part of Black Panther 3. Coogler emphasized the importance of this collaboration in a discussion with Carmelo Anthony, stating,
There’s no fiction out there. 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.
—Ryan Coogler, Director
This revelation broke during Coogler’s appearance on the 7PM in Brooklyn podcast. He further commented,
“I was surprised that when he mentioned it [‘Black Panther 3’], but it’s not like it’s not true.”
—Ryan Coogler, Director
Denzel Washington Opens Up About His Future and Commitment
Washington previously let slip in November 2024 that Coogler had created a part specifically for him in the evolving Marvel epic. When discussing his career plans, Washington explained,
writing a part for me in the next ‘Black Panther.’
—Denzel Washington, Actor
He spoke about his career direction, indicating that his potential Black Panther 3 role might be among his last, as he focuses on working with acclaimed filmmakers. Washington shared,
After that, I’m going to do the film ‘Othello.’ After that, I’m going to do King Lear. After that, I’m going to retire,
—Denzel Washington, Actor
For me, it’s about the filmmakers. Especially at this point in my career, I am only interested in working with the best. I don’t know how many more films I’m going to make. It’s probably not that many. I want to do things I haven’t done.
—Denzel Washington, Actor
Washington’s remarks express his selective approach to roles at this stage in his career and help set expectations for what may be one of his most significant cinematic performances.
Denzel Washington’s Upcoming Projects Highlight Continued Passion
Denzel Washington’s career momentum remains strong, with his next big project, Highest 2 Lowest, directed by Spike Lee, on the horizon. The film, written by Lee and Alan Fox, and produced by Todd Black and Jason Michael Berman, will see Washington returning to headline a major production. Executive producers include Peter Guber, Matthew Lindner, Chris Brigham, and Katia Washington. Notably, Spike Lee is a longtime mentor to Ryan Coogler, drawing a direct connection between these prominent filmmakers.
Coogler expressed his anticipation for the upcoming film in his recent podcast appearance, saying,
I’m so hyped for this. That trailer — the monologue Denzel doing…he’s in rare form. I just can’t put no words to how excited I am, man, because when [Lee] and Denzel get together, it’s always a masterpiece.
—Ryan Coogler, Director
Highest 2 Lowest is set for theatrical release on August 22, 2025, with a streaming debut on Apple TV+ scheduled for September 5, 2025. Meanwhile, Sinners, Coogler’s horror outing, is currently accessible on Prime Video and Fandango at Home.
The Impact of Washington’s Addition to Black Panther and the MCU
Bringing Denzel Washington into Black Panther 3 would mark a historic MCU moment, given his standing as one of the greatest living actors and his influence across generations of audiences and filmmakers. Ryan Coogler’s desire to work with Washington underscores the caliber of talent that Marvel seeks for this anticipated sequel. While Marvel has yet to formally announce Black Panther 3, Coogler’s statements provide fans a rare, honest glimpse into the casting process and creative ambitions behind the franchise’s next chapter.
With Washington contemplating retirement after a trio of major projects and the continued collaborative spirit between legends like Coogler and Lee, anticipation for Washington’s Marvel debut only grows. The actor’s selective approach, combined with Coogler’s vision, suggests Black Panther 3 may not only be a box office draw, but also a culturally resonant cinematic event.
