Denzel Washington Reportedly Cast in Black Panther 3

Denzel Washington is currently making headlines with his promotion of Gladiator II, but it’s his remarks regarding another franchise that are igniting excitement among fans. During an interview alongside Pedro Pascal on Australia’s Today show, Washington revealed that he will be featured in the upcoming, yet-to-be-titled, Black Panther 3. “Ryan Coogler’s writing a part for me in the next Black Panther,” he excitedly disclosed.

The anticipation for a third Black Panther installment is palpable, especially following the achievements of its two predecessors. The original Black Panther film became a cultural milestone, raking in $1.3 billion at the box office and earning multiple award nominations, including a Best Picture Oscar nod. Although its sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, didn’t quite match the groundbreaking success of the first film, it still performed admirably, particularly amidst the mourning for its lead, Chadwick Boseman, who tragically passed away in 2020.

However, audiences should prepare for a prolonged wait for the third film. In January 2023, Letitia Wright, one of the film’s stars, informed Variety that although a third installment was “already in the works,” it was “going to take a while.”Nevertheless, many fans are more than willing to be patient to witness Washington make his long-anticipated debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

A Long-Awaited MCU Appearance

Speculation surrounding Washington’s involvement in the MCU has been ongoing for some time. Reports suggested that he was considered for the role of Galactus, the planet-devouring villain from the Fantastic Four series, but he ultimately declined the offer. More recent rumors hinted at a potential role as the villain Dormammu in Doctor Strange 3, but it seems that the focus has shifted to this third Black Panther entry instead.

In contrast to the thrilling news, there is a bittersweet element to Washington’s announcement, as he mentioned plans to retire soon. During his interview, he stated, “I don’t know how many more films I’m going to make. Probably not that many. I want to do things I haven’t done.” He expressed interest in tackling some classic Shakespearean roles before stepping back from acting.

The prospect of Washington gracing the screen in Black Panther 3 feels particularly poignant. The late Chadwick Boseman was able to attend the British American Drama Academy thanks to Washington, who paid for his tuition. This noble gesture was facilitated by Phylicia Rashad, another prominent figure in Black entertainment.

“Imagine receiving the letter that your tuition for that summer was paid for and that your benefactor was none other than the dopest actor on the planet,” Boseman remarked in a 2019 speech at the American Film Institute. He added a heartfelt tribute, stating, “There is no Black Panther without Denzel Washington.”

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