Ryan Coogler just lit the signal over Wakanda: Black Panther 3 is his next film. In fact, he confirmed it at Deadline Contenders, so production begins early 2027 while the release is already locked for February 18, 2028 — perfectly timed with Chadwick Boseman receiving his Hollywood Walk of Fame star this week.

First, the royal court returns in full force: Letitia Wright as Shuri (now the Panther), Lupita Nyong’o, Danai Gurira, Winston Duke, and Angela Bassett all reprise their roles. Then comes the seismic addition: Denzel Washington officially joins the kingdom. Notably, Coogler is writing the role specifically for him. As a result, speculation has the internet in a chokehold — elder statesman, secret mentor, or something darker?

Of course, we still remember 2018. At that time, Comic-Con became a sovereign nation. Thousands arrived in Dora Milaje armor, kids waved glowing claws, and families draped themselves in royal purple. Clearly, that wasn’t marketing. Instead, it was a global coronation. Consequently, the first film earned $1.34 billion, became the first superhero Best Picture nominee, and turned “Wakanda Forever” into a real-world salute.

Meanwhile, Coogler — the genius behind Fruitvale Station, Creed, and the Oscar-buzzed Sinners — could’ve chased any project. Yet, he chose to protect the throne Chadwick built and the culture claimed.

Beyond the numbers, the original Black Panther sparked a cultural earthquake. For example, it shattered every February box-office record, earned three Oscars, and proved Black stories can dominate globally. Moreover, cosplay became activism. In addition, “Yibambe” became a battle cry. Above all, Chadwick Boseman’s T’Challa became the king we all needed.

When Boseman passed in 2020, the world mourned. However, Marvel chose not to recast — a decision that honored his legacy. As a result, Wakanda Forever became a tribute and still pulled $859 million. Meanwhile, Letitia Wright’s Shuri stepping into the suit wasn’t just plot — it was poetry.

Now, with Coogler back, the trilogy becomes a coronation. In fact, sources say the script is “percolating” with fresh Wakandan corners. For instance, hidden tribes, diaspora connections, and Shuri’s tech clashing with ancient rituals. And Denzel? The possibilities are endless.

The Culture Docent with Dr. Takeisha Carr

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