Denzel Washington Teases 'Black Panther 3' Role as One of His Final Film Projects

The Marvel Cinematic Universe has been virtually perfect so far in-terms of casting—Robert Downey Jr., Angela Bassett, Scarlett Johansson and the late, great Chadwick Boseman to name a few. But there has been one great actor missing from the list…until now. Ladies and gents, the legendary Denzel Washington has officially confirmed that he is joining the MCU as part of the last few film projects he has planned before retiring. While Marvel Studios hasn’t yet announced a third film is in the works for the Black Panther series, it’s clear from the post-credits of the second installment that there is clearly going to be a part three. It seems likely the news will come by way of a D23 reveal considering other recent Marvel announcements.

At least that might have been the original plan before Washington let the cat out of the bag. Chatting to the Today show on Australia’s Channel 9 as part of the promotional circuit for his upcoming film Gladiator 2, Washington stated that director Ryan Coogler is writing a part for him in the next Black Panther. 

“I played Othello at 22, I’m now going to play it at 70,” he told the hosts, adding, “After that, I’m playing Hannibal. After that, I’ve been talking with Steve McQueen about a film. After that, Ryan Coogler is writing a part for me in the next Black Panther.”

The “He Got Game” actor also mentioned that his film career is winding down, and as a result, he is only interested in working with top talent moving forward. “At this point in my career, I’m only interested in working with the best, I don’t know how many more films I will make, probably not that many. I want to do things that I haven’t done.”

In her review of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Associate Editor of News and Entertainment Nakeisha Campbell wrote that this movie was a poignant, emotional experience. “I could go on with a laundry list of reasons why this film is a must-watch (yes, even for those who aren't into Marvel). But at its core, it's an honest exploration of grief and loss while attempting to start a new chapter. As told by a team of incredibly smart and diligent women who'd stop at nothing to protect their country.”

Giving the film a 5-star rating, she continued, “Ryan Coogler's sequel is a heartfelt tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman and a testament to the resiliency of Black women. While tackling themes of grief, loss, family and loyalty, Wakanda Forever gently ushers fans into a new era with the next Black Panther (and a surprise after-credits twist).”

The Black Panther franchise continues to be one of the MCU’s most successful, with estimated earnings of over $1 billion at the box office. 

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