Ryan Coogler directing Black Panther 3 has stirred anticipation, especially with hints that Sinners star Jayme Lawson could be part of the upcoming villain lineup. Recent statements from Coogler at an event have fueled speculation about the casting, intensifying interest in how the next chapter of Marvel’s Wakanda saga might unfold.
Coogler Returns to Black Panther Amid New Casting Rumors
Following the mixed response to Black Panther: Wakanda Forever in 2022, Ryan Coogler is officially set to continue his directorial work for Black Panther 3. This new project has gained extra buzz as fans and media question whether Coogler will collaborate with actors from his previous film, Sinners, particularly the notably talented Jayme Lawson.
During a recent interview with Comicbook.com, Coogler responded to rumors about casting Sinners actors with a comment that only intensified the mystery.
“I can neither confirm nor deny… I’ma plead the fifth.”
—Ryan Coogler, Director
Such a carefully worded reply suggests there may be ongoing discussions about expanding the franchise’s cast, and it has left fans and industry watchers scrutinizing every hint for clues about the film’s direction.
Why Jayme Lawson Could Suit an Antagonist Role
One of the Black Panther franchise’s enduring strengths has been its impactful villains. In the 2018 film, Michael B. Jordan brought intensity to the character of Erik Killmonger, while Tenoch Huerta’s Namor fueled the conflict in Wakanda Forever. Continuing this legacy of memorable antagonists seems likely for the upcoming sequel.
Jayme Lawson, who starred in Sinners, is now being considered by fans and pundits as an ideal fit to play Zenzi in Black Panther 3. Zenzi is a character with a complex backstory: after experiments involving her and her tribesmen in Niganda at the hands of Killmonger, Zenzi escapes and sparks a powerful rebellion. Created by Ta-Nehisi Coates and Brian Stelfreeze in the comics, Zenzi later becomes an ally of Helmut Zemo and ultimately Hydra, adding another layer of intrigue and danger to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Despite repeated efforts by Black Panther to thwart her, Zenzi is known for her relentless return, leading a rebel army and gathering the support of formidable allies. Should she make her on-screen debut, Marvel Studios would be able to build on the tradition of dynamic and multi-faceted villains in the franchise.
The Potential Impact of Zenzi’s Introduction in the Sequel
Bringing Jayme Lawson on as Zenzi could strengthen both the narrative and the connection to Black Panther’s comic origins. Conflicts over Wakanda’s throne and its Vibranium have always underscored the films. In the original, Killmonger’s ambition challenged T’Challa’s rule, while Wakanda Forever saw further upheaval following T’Challa’s death.
If Zenzi is added to the story, her rebellion against the powerful elite could stoke new tensions, especially if supported by Hydra or Helmut Zemo—who remains active in the MCU. The presence of these alliances opens the door to layered, politically charged storylines that blend personal vengeance and broader conspiracies, in keeping with the franchise’s legacy.
Ryan Coogler’s cagey response implies that there are serious conversations underway about shaking up the cast with a Sinners star, positioning Jayme Lawson as a top contender. While no official confirmation has been offered, this potential casting choice could be a pivotal move for Lawson’s career and for the future of Marvel’s political thrillers.
As fans debate the merits of including Jayme Lawson in Black Panther 3, it remains clear that the discussion is shaping anticipation and speculation. For those eager to see more of Lawson’s work, Sinners is currently available to stream on Prime Video in the USA.
The direction Ryan Coogler chooses, especially regarding which new actors enter Wakanda’s world, may define the tone and impact of Black Panther 3 for years to come, ensuring that conflicting emotions and high stakes continue to drive Marvel’s cinematic narrative.
