Director Ryan Coogler has given an interesting insight into the highly awaited ‘ Black Panther 3 ,’ specifically with regard to the involvement of iconic actor Denzel Washington . In a recent appearance on the Nightcap podcast , Coogler said how much he would love to work with Washington, adding, "I've been dying to work with Denzel. 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”.

Washington himself had previously teased his own involvement in the film in a "Today" show interview for Australia, stating that Coogler was "writing a part" for him in ‘ Black Panther 3’. Though no official news regarding the story or Washington's character has come out, the excitement of Coogler is an indication that negotiations are actively ongoing.

When queried regarding the timeline of ‘Black Panther 3’ release, Coogler reassured the fans that they would not be waiting for too long, saying only, "Not long". Nevertheless, producer Nate Moore made it clear that the movie would not be released prior to the upcoming ‘Avengers’ films, which are planned for release in May 2026 and May 2027. This includes the fact that while fans are looking forward to a third, they will have to wait patiently as Marvel prepares for its wider cinematic universe.

Coogler's earlier contributions to the franchise—2018's ‘Black Panther’ and 2022's ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever ’—have collectively raked in more than $2 billion worldwide, leaving high hopes for the third installment. The director is now preoccupied with his next thriller ‘Sinners,’ starring Michael B. Jordan, scheduled for release on April 18, 2025.

Washington even opined about revealing ‘Black Panther 3’ too early. He contacted Coogler in order to apologize for referencing the film without informing him in advance. "I called him and apologized for talking about the film," Washington stated, suggesting his admiration for Coogler and the artistic process involved.

As the world awaits ‘Black Panther 3,’ fans cannot help but speculate about what part Washington will play and how it will be woven into the greater Marvel Cinematic Universe narrative. With both Coogler and Washington having voiced their interest in working together, it appears a marriage of the two is more than possible.

In short, even though certain aspects of ‘Black Panther 3’ are shrouded in mystery, Ryan Coogler's determination to get Denzel Washington on board is a great sign for audiences looking forward to the next installment of Wakanda's tale.