On a recent episode of Nightcap with Shannon Sharpe and Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson, Ryan Coogler confirmed that he’s actively working to bring Denzel Washington into Black Panther 3 — and fans won’t have to wait long.
“I’ve been dying to work with Denzel,” the Black Panther director said during the podcast interview. “I’m hoping we can make that happen. I’ve got every intention of working with him on that movie. As long as he’s interested, man, it’s going to happen. He’s a living legend and a great mentor for so many of us. He’s all about looking out for us, now.”
Coogler’s admiration for Washington goes beyond fandom — it’s about legacy, mentorship, and the continuation of Black excellence in storytelling. Having already elevated the Black Panther franchise into a cultural phenomenon, Coogler seems intent on raising the bar even higher for the third installment.
When Sharpe pressed Coogler about when fans could expect the next Black Panther film, the director gave a promising (and intentionally vague) answer: “Not long.”
Marvel Studios has not officially announced Black Panther 3 or given it a release date. The first two Black Panther films combined have grossed over $2 billion at the global box office, making it one of Marvel’s most successful franchises.
Washington himself previously hinted at the collaboration, casually revealing in an interview with Australia’s Today show that Coogler was writing a role for him in the upcoming film. Though Washington later apologized for the slip — “I called him and apologized for talking about the movie,” he told Variety — the moment ignited excitement across social media.
“Whatever he writes, I’ll read,” Washington added. “He’s still Ryan — humble and full of ideas.”
Coogler has already built a cinematic brotherhood with Michael B. Jordan through the Creed and Black Panther films, and he’s set to release his next project — the R-rated thriller Sinners, starring Jordan — in theaters on April 18.
