Fans May Finally Get a New Black Panther in the MCU — One Name Is Already Topping the List
The future of the Wakandan throne is once again the subject of intense speculation as Marvel Studios prepares to expand its most prestigious franchise.
Industry insider Daniel Richtman has recently reported that a new Black Panther is slated for an introduction in the upcoming blockbuster Avengers: Secret Wars. These reports suggest that Marvel has already initiated meetings with potential leads, including actor Aaron Pierre, even as the studio navigates the complex timeline of its next phase of storytelling.
A new Black Panther will reportedly be introduced in ‘AVENGERS: SECRET WARS’.
— MCU Film News (@MCUFilmNews) January 26, 2026
Marvel Studios has reportedly met with actors such as Aaron Pierre for the role.
(Source: @DanielRPK) pic.twitter.com/1Bqjw1rFPg
Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige provided the first official confirmation of the project’s status during a press event for the film Fantastic Four: First Steps last summer. While the executive remained tight-lipped regarding a specific debut, he indicated that the creative team has a firm grasp on the narrative’s place in the larger MCU.
Feige playfully addressed the secrecy surrounding director Ryan Coogler’s work, stating, We know [when on the timeline it is], and if he’s telling you he doesn’t, that’s perfect.
The groundwork for this third installment has been in motion for several years, with initial discussions between Coogler and Feige dating back to November 2022. This developmental period allowed the creative team to respect the wishes of the returning cast members. Letitia Wright, who inherited the mantle as Shuri, noted in early 2023 that the group required time to regroup before returning to the high-stakes world of Wakanda.
One of the most significant updates for the trilogy’s conclusion involves the legendary Denzel Washington. Rumors of his involvement began in 2024 and were eventually confirmed by Coogler himself during an interview with Shannon Sharpe and Chad Johnson in June 2025.
The director expressed immense enthusiasm for the collaboration, explaining, I’m dying to work with Denzel and I’m hoping we can make that happen. Coogler further solidified the casting by adding, I got every intention of working with him in that movie and as long as he’s interested — it’s going to happen. He praised Washington as a living legend and a great mentor who has consistently been looking out for us.
Regarding the persistent questions about whether the franchise will eventually recast the late Chadwick Boseman’s character, T’Challa, Marvel’s leadership has maintained a cautious stance.
Nate Moore, Marvel’s VP of Production and Development, recently stated that there are currently no plans to recast the role. Moore clarified that the team’s focus has been elsewhere while Coogler finished his latest feature, Sinners, though he did not entirely close the door on future possibilities. Serious talks about the next Black Panther film haven’t even started, Moore noted during his address.
Nate Moore’s involvement in the project will continue despite his departure from Marvel Studios. Although he is transitioning to an independent production role, he has committed to returning as a producer for the third film to ensure a smooth conclusion to the Wakandan trilogy. This continuity ensures that the foundational vision for the series remains intact even as the studio explores new actors for the mantle.
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