'Black Panther 3' casts David Jonsson as T’Challa’s son for 2028 film

David Jonsson was revealed as the actor taking on the role of T’Challa’s adult son in Black Panther 3 during Marvel’s panel at San Diego Comic-Con on July 25, 2026. 

The third installment in the superhero franchise is scheduled to hit theaters on Dec. 15, 2028.

The 32-year-old British actor will portray the son of the late King T’Challa, originally played by Chadwick Boseman in the 2018 original film. 

The upcoming sequel will explore his character’s journey as he steps into adulthood and follows the legacy of Wakanda’s former king.

Director Ryan Coogler, who helmed both Black Panther (2018) and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022), will return to direct and co-write the third movie.

Boseman’s death from colon cancer at age 43 in 2020 led Coogler to rewrite the sequel’s story. 

Instead of recasting T’Challa, Wakanda Forever shifted its focus to his sister Shuri, played by Letitia Wright, who ultimately took on the mantle of the Black Panther. Wright will return for the third film.

Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige confirmed in December 2024 that a third Black Panther movie was in development, with Coogler attached to return.

The film will also mark Denzel Washington’s debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. 

Washington previously revealed that he was joining Black Panther 3, and Coogler later confirmed that he had written a role specifically for the acclaimed actor.

“Denzel is family at this point,” Coogler said in a 2025 appearance on the 7PM in Brooklyn podcast, praising Washington as “the greatest living actor” and highlighting his cultural impact.

Black Panther 3 will be filmed on 70mm and is set to arrive in theaters on December 15, 2028.