*With Marvel Studios officially developing “Black Panther 3,” excitement around the next chapter in Wakanda’s story continues to build. Fans are especially fixated on one question: who will become the next Black Panther? British-Nigerian actor Damson Idris has quickly become the frontrunner, sparking intense speculation across the industry and social media.
Insider reports and industry odds trackers list Idris at 3/1, or a 25% implied probability, to take over from Letitia Wright’s Shuri as the kingdom’s protector, according to an earlier report from Free Bets Casino. The rumors gained traction after Idris appeared on the TODAY Show, responding to casting buzz with a mix of humor and subtle intrigue. His composed reaction only added fuel to the speculation surrounding his potential involvement.
Adding to the frenzy, a viral photo captured Idris accompanying Angela Bassett — who portrays Queen Ramonda in the “Black Panther” franchise — to the Vogue World Hollywood event. Bassett appeared in a regal ensemble reminiscent of her on-screen persona, while Idris stood beside her, smiling broadly. The appearance intensified rumors that he might be preparing to step into Wakanda’s royal lineage.
— Media Updates (@mediaforupdates) October 27, 2025
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Both “Black Panther” (2018) and its 2022 sequel, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” were major successes, earning critical praise and commercial triumph. The first film earned seven Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, and won three Oscars. It remains the third-highest-grossing film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, according to Box Office Mojo.
The franchise has carried on the legacy of its late star Chadwick Boseman, who passed away in 2020 from colon cancer. In “Wakanda Forever,” Shuri (Letitia Wright) assumed the mantle of the Black Panther following her brother’s death, while M’Baku (Winston Duke) emerged as a contender for the throne. At the film’s conclusion, Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o) revealed her son Toussaint, the child of T’Challa, hinting at the kingdom’s future direction.
With “Black Panther 3” officially in development, announced by Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige in December 2024, fans are eager to know what’s next. While no plot details have been disclosed, speculation suggests the story could explore Toussaint’s rise and a possible conflict with M’Baku over Wakanda’s leadership.
Casting news remains limited, but one major name has been confirmed. Denzel Washington recently revealed during an interview on Australia Today that he will appear in the upcoming film. “[Director] Ryan Coogler is writing a part for me in the next Black Panther. After that, I’m going to do the film of Othello,” Washington said. “After that, I’m going to do King Lear. After that, I’m going to retire.”
Coogler confirmed Washington’s involvement during a June 5 episode of the 7PM in Brooklyn podcast, hosted by Carmelo Anthony. “Denzel is family at this point … I’ve been trying to work with him since day one,” Coogler said. “I think he’s the greatest living actor, and in terms of what he means to our culture, forget about it. I’ve been talking to him about this for a long time.”
Although casting details remain under wraps, it’s expected that Lupita Nyong’o, Winston Duke, and Danai Gurira will return. Angela Bassett is not expected to appear following her character’s on-screen death in the sequel.
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: Damson Idris Leads the Race to Become Marvel’s Next Black Panther in ‘Black Panther 3’
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