Ryan Coogler Announces Third 'Black Panther' Film, David Jonsson to Star Ryan Coogler took the stage during Marvel Studios’ Hall H panel at San Diego Comic-Con 2026 to announce his return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, revealing he will direct a third Black Panther film. The project, set for a December 15, 2028, theatrical release, marks the first time Coogler will helm a solo Black Panther movie since the 2018 original. David Jonsson, known for his roles in The Long Walk and Alien: Romulus, has been cast as the new Black Panther, a character described by Coogler as the son of T’Challa, the late Chadwick Boseman’s iconic portrayal. Coogler introduced Jonsson during the panel, emphasizing the character’s journey: “The last time we got to make a movie, we introduced a character who is the son of the character that the great Chadwick Boseman played, our T’Challa, in that film. And today, I want to tell you that in this next film, he grows up [and] he comes of age.” Jonsson, who received a standing ovation from the audience, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “I want to say thank you so much… I actually don’t want to say too much because I want to let the screen do the talking. But believe me, the honor is entirely mine.” The announcement was accompanied by the presence of Letitia Wright, who portrayed Shuri in the 2022 sequel Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, and Winston Duke, who played M’Baku in the same film. Coogler, who previously directed the 2018 Black Panther and its 2022 sequel, also highlighted his role as a co-producer of the 2025 Marvel series Ironheart and Eyes of Wakanda, both of which are available on Disney+. The third Black Panther film will continue the legacy of Wakanda, a fictional African nation central to the Marvel Universe.#ryan_coogler #chadwick_boseman #marvel_studios #david_jonsson #san_diego_comic_con_2026
