Kevin Feige Says Ryan Coogler Met With David Jonsson Six Months Ago in a ‘Secret Meeting’ to Discuss ‘Black Panther 3’ Role: ‘I Got Chills’
What's happening
Marvel Studios boss Kevin Feige revealed that director Ryan Coogler held a secret meeting with actor David Jonsson six months ago to cast him as the next Black Panther. Feige told Empire magazine that Coogler's choice of Jonsson left him emotionally moved, saying he "got chills" when learning about the casting decision.
Who's involved
Kevin Feige is the president of Marvel Studios overseeing the entire MCU franchise. Ryan Coogler is the Oscar-winning director of the Black Panther films, and David Jonsson is an actor known for his role in "The Long Walk" who has now been selected to take on the iconic superhero mantle.
Why it matters
This casting decision marks a major moment for the Black Panther franchise following the death of original star Chadwick Boseman in 2020. The deliberate, secretive selection process signals Marvel's commitment to finding the right actor to continue the legacy of one of its most culturally significant characters. The franchise's success directly impacts Marvel's theatrical slate and cultural relevance.
More context
Black Panther became a cultural phenomenon after its 2018 release, with Boseman's portrayal becoming iconic. After Boseman's unexpected passing, Marvel initially retired the Black Panther title in "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" (2022) rather than recasting immediately. The extended casting process—taking six months for secret meetings—reflects the franchise's recognition of the role's significance and the pressure to find an actor who can honor Boseman's legacy while bringing their own interpretation to the character.