Following the partial cast reveal of Avengers: Doomsday, fans have been left wondering about the whereabouts of several key heroes, including Black Panther. Notably, there has been no update on Letitia Wright’s character Shuri since Wakanda Forever in 2022. While details about a potential third film are scarce, one exciting rumor suggests that Denzel Washington may be involved.

In an interview during the press circuit for Gladiator II last November, Washington expressed his intention to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) through Ryan Coogler’s Black Panther franchise. Although no official announcement has been made, Coogler recently spoke with Shannon Sharpe and expressed his eagerness to work with Washington, referring to him as “a living legend and a great mentor.” Washington had previously mentioned his enthusiasm for taking on new challenges before retirement, making a collaboration seem plausible.

The Black Panther series is one of several franchises with significant gaps between solo installments. Marvel has not yet confirmed a third film, with the four-year wait following Wakanda Forever largely due to the passing of Chadwick Boseman in 2020 and the subsequent shift in focus to Shuri as the main hero. Recent rumors suggest that Marvel might introduce a new T’Challa, potentially as a multiverse variant or an adult version of his son introduced in Wakanda Forever. Coogler did not address these rumors but assured Sharpe that the wait for Black Panther 3 would “not be long.”

In the meantime, fans can look forward to Coogler’s Sinner on April 18 and Avengers: Doomsday on May 1, 2026.

[via Deadline]

For more io9 news, check out the upcoming release dates for Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases. Also, stay updated on the DC Universe on film and TV, and get the latest on the future of Doctor Who.