Marvel Studios has officially planted its flag in 2028, confirming that the highly anticipated Black Panther 3 is expected to hit theaters that year.
The announcement, which gained traction following a profile in The New York Times and recent comments from director Ryan Coogler, marks the first time a specific window has been attached to the third installment of the Oscar-winning franchise.
Coogler Returns to Wakanda
Director Ryan Coogler, who helmed both the 2018 original and 2022’s Wakanda Forever, has confirmed that Black Panther 3 will be his next feature film. After spending the last year focusing on his supernatural thriller Sinners, Coogler told audiences at a recent industry panel that he is “working hard” on the script.
“I’m so fired up about that movie, bro,” Coogler said regarding the threequel. “It feels like open land, open opportunity.”
A New Era: Post-Secret Wars
The 2028 release date is strategically significant. It places the film immediately after the conclusion of The Multiverse Saga, which ends with Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027. This suggests Black Panther 3 will likely kick off Phase 7 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, potentially dealing with the fallout of a reshaped multiverse.
Key Details Confirmed So Far:
The Cast: Letitia Wright is expected to return as Shuri, alongside core cast members like Lupita Nyong’o (Nakia), Danai Gurira (Okoye), and Winston Duke (M’Baku).
The Legend Joins: In a massive casting coup, Denzel Washington has confirmed he has a role in the film. Washington revealed that Coogler is writing a specific part for him, which the actor suggested may be one of his final roles before retirement.
Production Timeline: Industry insiders suggest filming is slated to begin in early 2027, allowing for the heavy post-production work required to bring the high-tech nation of Wakanda to life.
What’s Next for Fans?
While the plot remains a closely guarded secret, the introduction of T’Challa’s son, Toussaint, in the Wakanda Forever post-credits scene has fans speculating about a potential time jump or a story focused on the true succession of the mantle.
Before the third film arrives, fans can return to the world of Wakanda through the animated series Eyes of Wakanda, which explores the history of the Black Panther lineage throughout the ages.
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