Ryan Coogler Confirms Role for Denzel Washington in Black Panther 3: “He’s the Greatest Living Actor”

The anticipation for Black Panther 3 just skyrocketed, as acclaimed director Ryan Coogler has confirmed that he has written a role specifically for none other than Denzel Washington, whom he hails as “the greatest living actor.”

During a recent episode of the podcast 7PM in Brooklyn With Carmelo Anthony, Coogler revealed his long-standing desire to collaborate with Washington, a cinematic icon whose impact on culture transcends generations. “I’ve been trying to work with him since day one,” Coogler said. “In terms of what he means to our culture, forget about it. I’ve been talking to him about this for a long time, and I was surprised when he mentioned it. But it’s not like it’s not true.”

Washington himself had previously alluded to his involvement with the franchise during a November interview on Australia’s Today show. At age 70, the two-time Oscar winner expressed a desire to take on roles that challenge him anew, listing a series of ambitious projects—including playing Othello on Broadway, a film with Steve McQueen, and notably, a part in Coogler’s Black Panther 3.

“I called [Coogler] the other day… I called him to apologize,” Washington explained on the Variety Awards Circuit podcast, referring to his surprise reveal of the secret Marvel casting. “He said, ‘No, man, it’s all good.’”

Beyond Coogler’s admiration, Washington’s connection to the Black Panther franchise runs deeper. He shared a close bond with Chadwick Boseman, the late actor who immortalized King T’Challa. Boseman passed away in 2020 after a private battle with colon cancer at just 43 years old. In 2019, Boseman honored Washington while presenting him with the American Film Institute’s Life Achievement Award, revealing Washington’s quiet generosity in funding nine Howard University theater students—including Boseman himself—to attend a summer program at Oxford University.

“There is no Black Panther without Denzel Washington,” Boseman declared, highlighting the profound influence Washington had on his life and career.

Marvel has yet to officially announce Black Panther 3 or Washington’s casting, but Coogler’s confirmation has fans buzzing about the possibilities this legendary collaboration could bring to the beloved franchise’s next chapter.