It looks like Ryan Coogler and Denzel Washington might be linking up for something legendary.
The Black Panther director hopped on Nightcap with Shannon Sharpe and Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson and confirmed the rumors that have been buzzing louder than a Wakandan Vibranium drill—he wants Denzel in Black Panther 3.
“I’ve been dying to work with Denzel,” Coogler said, leaning all the way into it. “I’ve got every intention of working with him on that movie. As long as he’s interested—man, it’s gonna happen.”
And honestly, who wouldn’t be? Denzel is Denzel. A once-in-a-lifetime type of artist who still moves like he’s just getting started. Coogler called him a “living legend and a great mentor for so many of us,” adding, “He’s all about looking out for us now.”
When Sharpe asked how long we’ll have to wait for Black Panther 3, Coogler didn’t beat around the bush: “Not long.”
The conversation adds fuel to the fire started late last year when Denzel himself let the cat out the bag during an interview with Australia’s Today Show, casually mentioning that Coogler was “writing something for him” in the next Black Panther movie.
Wakanda forever? Looks like we’re just getting started.
Although Denzel had to admit he may have spoken too soon. In a follow-up with Variety, he revealed he called Coogler to apologize:
“I called him and apologized for talking about the movie. And right there sitting with him was his beautiful wife. He’s still Ryan—humble and full of ideas. Whatever he writes, I’ll read.”
Marvel hasn’t officially announced Black Panther 3 yet—no title, no date, just whispers—but considering the franchise has raked in over $2 billion worldwide, you don’t need Shuri’s tech to know a third film is in the cards.
For now, Coogler is focused on releasing his R-rated thriller Sinners, starring longtime collaborator Michael B. Jordan, which drops April 18.
But with this kind of momentum and mutual respect between Coogler and Washington, don’t be surprised if the next time we visit Wakanda, we’re greeted by royalty played by one of the greatest to ever do it.
Stay tuned—because if Ryan has his way, we’ll all be saying King Denzel has entered the MCU chat.