Actor David Jonsson, 32, has been revealed as the new Black Panther, set to portray T'Challa's adult son in an upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe installment. The news was announced by director Ryan Coogler and Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige at San Diego Comic-Con.
The film, tentatively titled Black Panther 3, is slated for release on December 15, 2028. Jonsson appeared on stage alongside Coogler, Feige, and cast members Letitia Wright and Winston Duke, receiving a warm reception from the crowd. "I want to say thank you so much," Jonsson said. "Thank you, Ryan. Thank you, Kevin. Thank you to this amazing family that I have the honor and privilege and blessing to join."
Jonsson's previous acting credits include roles in "Alien: Romulus" (2024) and the HBO series "Industry." He is also expected to appear in "The Long Walk" (2025).
The original Black Panther, T'Challa, was portrayed by Chadwick Boseman, who passed away in August 2020 at the age of 43 after a battle with colon cancer. Boseman first appeared as the superhero in the critically acclaimed 2018 film "Black Panther." The movie earned over $1 billion at the box office and received seven Oscar nominations, winning for Best Costume Design, Best Original Score, and Best Production Design.
Its sequel, "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever," was released in 2022, with Letitia Wright taking on the mantle of Black Panther as Shuri. Both Wright and Winston Duke are confirmed to return for the upcoming third installment, which will again be directed by Coogler. Denzel Washington is also slated to appear in the film.
Winston Duke, who plays M'Baku, expressed his support for Jonsson joining the cast. "It feels great. He's a wonderful young man. I had the pleasure of meeting him for the first time today," Duke told The Hollywood Reporter. "I welcomed him into the family, I welcomed him and offered him the same grace that was extended to me."
Duke reflected on his own experience joining the franchise, stating, "It's a safe place to come and play. And I trust all the decisions that have been made in bringing him so, it's great."
In November, Boseman was posthumously honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Coogler, Michael B. Jordan, and Viola Davis were among those who attended the ceremony to pay tribute to the late actor. "We continue to carry him with us," Coogler said in his speech, calling Boseman "our most incredible jewel."