The Marvel Cinematic Universe may be gearing up for its most prestigious collaboration yet. Ryan Coogler, the visionary director behind both Black Panther films, has revealed his strong desire to work with acting legend Denzel Washington in the potential third installment of the groundbreaking franchise. In a recent interview that sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, Coogler stated plainly: “As long as he’s interested, it’s going to happen.”
A Meeting of Cinematic Titans
The prospect of Washington joining the MCU represents what could be one of the most significant casting coups in superhero movie history. While the two-time Oscar winner has famously avoided comic book movies throughout his storied career, Coogler’s personal connection and the cultural weight of Black Panther might finally change that.
Industry insiders suggest Coogler has been quietly pursuing Washington for years, with the Black Panther franchise being the only superhero property that could potentially lure the selective actor. Their professional relationship dates back to 2013 when Washington mentored a then-27-year-old Coogler during the production of Fruitvale Station.
Who Could Washington Play?
Marvel fans and film journalists have been speculating wildly about which character might convince Washington to join the MCU:
- Blue Marvel (Adam Brashear)
- The brilliant physicist/superhero with energy manipulation powers
- Would allow Washington to play both intellectual depth and superhero action
- Established in comics as a contemporary of T’Challa’s father
- Elder of the Panther Tribe
- A spiritual guide to Shuri’s Black Panther
- Could provide the gravitas Wakanda’s new era needs
- Would require minimal physical commitment
- Original Black Panther (Azuri)
- Ancient ancestor of T’Challa
- Flashback sequences showing Wakanda’s early days
- Opportunity for Washington to wear the suit briefly
- Villain Role (Kiber the Cruel)
- Ruthless dictator from Panther mythology
- Would mark Washington’s first true comic book villain
- Potential to be a multi-film antagonist
Why This Could Be Washington’s Marvel Moment
At 69, Washington has been increasingly selective about roles, making the Coogler factor crucial. Their shared history includes:
- Washington personally calling Coogler after seeing Fruitvale Station
- The actor providing unofficial guidance during Creed production
- Their mutual participation in social justice initiatives
“Ryan understands how to create roles worthy of Denzel’s talents,” revealed a source close to both filmmakers. “He wouldn’t approach this as just another superhero part, but as a substantial character piece that happens to be in the MCU.”
The Cultural Significance
Bringing Washington into the Black Panther universe would:
- Mark the first time two generations of Black Hollywood royalty unite in a superhero project
- Potentially set up a passing-of-the-torch narrative between Washington and Letitia Wright
- Add new layers to Wakanda’s mythology ahead of the Avengers: The Kang Dynasty crossover
Production Timeline and Challenges
While Marvel hasn’t officially announced Black Panther 3, insiders reveal:
- Early script treatments are being developed with Washington in mind
- Scheduling remains the biggest hurdle (Washington typically commits to one project per year)
- Coogler is willing to adjust the production schedule to accommodate the actor
The project would likely film in late 2025 for a possible 2027 release, following Coogler’s vampire thriller and Washington’s planned Gladiator 2 press tour.
Fan Reactions: Electric Anticipation
Social media exploded with excitement after Coogler’s comments:
- “Denzel in Wakanda? I might actually cry in the theater” (@MarvelTrueBeliever)
- “This is the only way to top Boseman’s legacy – bring in THE GOAT” (@CinemaKing)
- “Imagine the Coogler-Washington director-actor combo in a Marvel movie… we’re not ready” (@FilmTwitter)
Even fellow celebrities joined the chorus, with Don Cheadle tweeting: “Somebody get me Denzel’s number… for reasons.”
What This Means for the MCU’s Future
A Washington casting would:
- Elevate the entire franchise’s prestige factor
- Potentially attract other A-list actors who’ve avoided superhero films
- Provide emotional heft as Wakanda moves forward without T’Challa
With the multiverse saga expanding, Washington’s presence could anchor the more grounded, politically-charged Wakandan storylines amidst cosmic chaos.
The Bigger Picture: Black Excellence in Hollywood
This potential collaboration continues Black Panther‘s tradition of breaking barriers:
2018 | First Black-led superhero film nominated for Best Picture
2022 | First Black female director (Coogler) nominated for same film series
2027? | First two-time Oscar winner joining a Marvel sequel
As Coogler told the interviewer: “When you’re dealing with legends, you move at their pace. But when the story is right and the moment is right, magic happens.”
For now, all eyes remain on whether Washington will finally say “yes” to the superhero genre for the one filmmaker who might just make it impossible to refuse.