Ryan Coogler is writing a part for legendary actor Denzel Washington in Black Panther 3, and Washington has responded to his casting. After revealing that he had been searching for a way to include Washington in the film, Coogler eventually confirmed that the actor had officially signed on to the cast.

The role The Equalizer, Training Day, and Remember the тιтans star will play in Black Panther 3 is unknown, as is the story of the movie. With Black Panther: Wakanda Forever introducing new characters and factions like Namor and Talokan and the Marvel Cinematic Universe growing ever larger, there are seemingly endless routes the film could take.

In an interview with ScreenRant’s Liam Crowley about his performance in Spike Lee’s Highest 2 Lowest, Washington gave a blunt response about his casting in the film. When Crowley asked if Washington and Coogler had continued to discuss his role, the actor simply responded “That’s between me and Ryan.”

What Denzel Washington’s Comments Mean For Black Panther 3

Ryan Coogler’s casting of Denzel Washington in Black Panther 3 is a big deal for the MCU, even if the actor is mum on the details. Coogler has made it clear that he’s always hoped to work with the actor, and it’s a testament to Coogler’s own filmmaking prowess that Washington, who has traditionally avoided franchise tentpoles, has signed on.

Regarding Washington’s actual quote, “That’s between me and Ryan” could mean anything. Surely, Washington is well aware that Marvel wants details about upcoming movies kept under wraps, so the most likely answer is that he’s simply honoring that in his own way.

It does seem as though Washington is at least staying on board the film, as he could have just as easily answered in the negative if discussions had stalled. It makes more sense that Washington knows quite a bit that would be fascinating to those following the film, which is exactly why he doesn’t want to let on.

Our Take On Denzel Washington In Black Panther 3

Not much is known yet about the story or cast of Black Panther 3, but the fact that Denzel Washington is involved–not to mention that Ryan Coogler is writing a part specifically for him–is exciting. And Coogler’s adoration for the actor bodes well for the quality of the star’s role.

Ideally, Washington will not be another case of a beloved actor underutilized in an MCU entry. Every now and then, truly surprising stars are picked for roles in a Marvel film that either minimizes their contribution or underwhelms in a critical or commercial way that puts a damper on the actor’s involvement.

Hopefully, Washington in Black Panther 3 will not echo Bill Murray in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania to Christian Bale and Russell Crowe in Thor: Love and Thunder, at least in the sense that all three of those actors committed to parts that are likely to fade away into the background of the MCU.

Thankfully, Coogler is two for two on successful Black Panther movies, and is likely to give Washington the superhero franchise welcome he deserves.