Movies

Denzel Washington Joins Black Panther 3, But Who Is He Playing?

BBG News

There’s a lot of curiosity among fans regarding the upcoming film, Black Panther 3. Even though Marvel Studios hasn’t officially confirmed it yet, fans are certain that it’s on its way. The franchise’s director, Ryan Coogler, has hinted that he will continue the series with a potential final installment of Black Panther, following his successful movie, Sinners. Although specific details like release date, phase, or plot are yet to be revealed, one fact is clear: Denzel Washington will feature in it.

The renowned actor, most famous for his roles in critically-acclaimed movies such as Philadelphia, Malcolm X, and Training Day, announced he will join the cast of Black Panther 3 while publicizing Gladiator II. Since the plot details for Black Panther 3 remain a mystery, it can be hard to guess which character Ryan Coogler might have in mind for Washington. However, by exploring the extensive comic book history of Marvel, we can suggest a few roles that could suit Denzel Washington perfectly. Here are five potential characters Denzel Washington might portray in Black Panther 3.

Role Origin
Achebe Black Panther Vol. 2 #3
Changamire Black Panther Vol. 6 #2
Tetu Black Panther Vol. 6 #1
Gentle New X-Men Vol. 2 #23
T’Chanda Fantastic Four Unlimited #1

Achebe

Created by Christopher Priest and Mark Texeira

First Appearance: Black Panther Vol. 2 #3 (January 1999)

Since the speculation about Denzel Washington joining Black Panther 3 started, many have presumed he would play the movie’s antagonist. The name that stands out to many as a potential villain is Achebe. Writer Christopher Priest designed this character to be akin to the Joker for the Black Panther series. Given that the Joker is one of the most legendary comic book and film villains, who earned two Academy Award-winning actors in their roles, a character like Achebe seems tailor-made for Denzel Washington, a two-time Academy Award winner.

In a surprising twist, Washington’s gripping portrayals of virtuous characters have often been outshone by his performances as villains. The idea of Washington fully embracing the role of a comic book villain seems almost too good to be true, yet it appears to be becoming a reality. Following the release of Ironheart, there are rumors that the stage could be set for Achebe’s appearance. In the comics, Achebe is infamous for having made a pact with Mephisto. Since Ryan Coogler produced Ironheart, the series that introduced Mephisto to the MCU, it’s possible that he may have been setting up events for Black Panther 3.

Changamire

Created by Ta-Nehisi Coates and Brian Stelfreeze

First Appearance: Black Panther Vol. 6 #2 (May 2016)

In simpler terms, Denzel Washington might not portray a villain but rather a key character with a mentor role, given his reputation as an actor of great depth and wisdom. This character could be Changamire, a fresh addition to the Marvel Comics universe who appeared eight years into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Changamire was a philosopher who collaborated with T’Challa’s father, T’Chacka, before being exiled from Wakanda due to his anti-monarchy views.

A significant aspect of Ryan Coogler’s work within the Black Panther series involves merging and upholding the power-fantasy essence of Wakanda. Changamire appears to be an ideal character for Black Panther 3, as it presents an opportunity for the franchise to tackle a recurring criticism concerning its representation of divine kingship. Given that Wakanda is currently undergoing transformation, with Shuri, the current Black Panther, not holding the reigns of power but rather permitting M’Baku to rule, the introduction of Changamire in Black Panther 3 could suggest a potential shift away from monarchy in Wakanda.

Tetu

Created by Ta-Nehisi Coates and Brian Stelfreeze

First Appearance: Black Panther Vol. 6 #1 (April 2016)

The Black Panther miniseries by Ta-Nehisi Coates and Brian Stelfreeze was released to cash in on the popularity gained by T’Challa and Black Panther in the film “Captain America: Civil War.” In the first issue of the comic, a new adversary for Black Panther named Tetu is presented. This character could potentially resonate with Washington, as he was once an idealistic student of Changamire. Tetu heads a rebellious faction known as the People, who are fighting against the rulers of Wakanda. Driven by a desire to retaliate against the wealthy elite who exploit the poor, Tetu resorts to violent measures.

In simpler terms, Tetu’s strong motivation, fueled by a compassionate drive to help people, but pushed to an extreme level of violence, resembles past villains in the franchise like Namor and Kilmonger. Casting Washington as Tetu could set him apart from these previous antagonists because he is a more experienced warrior with a likely cynical perspective that could create a stark contrast with the youthful optimism of characters like Shuri. Additionally, Tetu has magical abilities, allowing him to control nature and create portals through time and space, which could connect him to the world of Doctor Strange. This could provide director Coogler with a fresh visual aspect for his Black Panther film, and also expand on the magic storylines introduced in Ironheart.

T’Chanda / Azzuri the Wise

Created by Roy Thomas and Herb Trimpe

First Appearance: Fantastic Four Unlimited #1 (January 1993)

Ryan Coogler and Marvel Studios are delving into the ancestry of Black Panther and the rich history of Wakanda. In the upcoming animated series titled “Eyes of Wakanda“, Coogler will be the producer, focusing on various eras of Wakandan civilization, including multiple Black Panthers spanning different time periods. On another front, a video game titled “Marvel: 1943” is scheduled for release in 2026, transporting players to World War II where Captain America interacts with the contemporary Black Panther of that era, T’Chanda, also known as Azzuri the Wise. There’s a possibility that Denzel Washington could portray T’Chanda in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, either through flashbacks or even in the Astral Plane.

As a direct ancestor of T’Challa, Shuri, Killmonger, and others, there’s a fascinating tale yet untold that connects my story with theirs. In the third installment of Black Panther, we could adopt the narrative structure of The Godfather Part II, brilliantly portraying two parallel stories – one following T’Challa (or another key character) and the other delving into the life of his forebearer, T’Chanda. This innovative approach would beautifully align with the animated series “Eyes of Wakanda,” enriching the connection between the two mediums and providing a solid foundation for Black Panther 3 to expand upon its storyline.

Gentle

Created by Craig Kyle, Chris Yost, and Mark Brooks

First Appearance: New X-Men Vol. 2 #23 (April 2006)

As a movie enthusiast, I must confess that “Gentle” stands out as an intriguing wildcard character. Nez Abidemi, or Gentle, is a Wakandan mutant adorned with Vibranium tattoos. His unique ability allows him to momentarily amplify his physical strength to staggering levels, even challenging the might of the Hulk. However, this power comes at a cost – he can’t maintain it for long and its continuous use could lead to severe health issues such as seizures or worse, death.

Despite these risks, Gentle is a pacifist who strives to avoid confrontation. He only employs his powers in situations of absolute necessity, which explains his moniker.

As a cinema enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that Black Panther 3 is tentatively set to grace our screens in 2028, marking its appearance during Phase Seven of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, rumored to be christened The Mutant Saga.

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2025-07-05 02:33

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