David Jonsson is the new Black Panther for Marvel's upcoming film

July 28 ------ Marvel Studios has officially found its next Black Panther. British actor David Jonsson has been cast as the new Black Panther for Black Panther 3, which is slated to hit theaters on December 15, 2028.

The announcement was made by returning director Ryan Coogler during Marvel Studios' Hall H presentation at San Diego Comic-Con 2026. As his name was revealed, David walked onto the stage to a roaring ovation, joining co-stars Letitia Wright, Winston Duke, and Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige. The actor placed his hand over his chest and smiled as he soaked in the crowd's warm reception.

The original Black Panther, T'Challa, was portrayed by the late actor Chadwick Boseman in the 2018 blockbuster film. Chadwick passed away in August 2020 at the age of 43 following a private four-year battle with colon cancer.

David's connection to the franchise began in Wakanda Forever, where he was introduced as T'Challa II, the son of T'Challa and Nakia, played by Lupita Nyong'o. While unveiling the casting, Ryan shared that the third installment will focus on the next chapter of the young prince's journey. "The last time we got to make a movie, we introduced a character who is the son of the character that the great Chadwick Boseman played, our T'Challa, in that film. And today, I want to tell you that in this next film, he grows up [and] he comes of age."

As David stepped onstage, he thanked Marvel Studios and the filmmakers for entrusting him with the iconic role. "I want to say thank you so much," he told the audience. "Thank you, Ryan, thank you Kevin, thank you to this amazing family that I have the honor and the privilege and the blessing to join. I actually don't want to say too much because I want to let the screen do the talking. But believe me, honor is entirely mine."

Source: news.abs-cbn.com