Denzel Washington, the esteemed 70-year-old actor, is preparing to join the cast of the highly anticipated film, Black Panther 3. Coogler shared that the role was being written specifically for Washington, making the co-creative path they’d longed to walk together even more paved. Coogler is someone whom Washington already greatly admires and has long wanted to work with. Ever since the start of his political career, he’s pursued this chance.
Washington’s connection to the Black Panther franchise extends beyond Coogler’s respect for his iconic performances in films such as Malcolm X and Training Day. The late Chadwick Boseman, who played T’Challa in the popular franchise, had a close connection to Washington. Boseman honored Washington during the American Film Institute’s Life Achievement Award ceremony, declaring, “There is no Black Panther without Denzel Washington.”
Washington’s impact on the next generation of actors is palpable. He has been a quiet supporter of nine theater students from Howard University. The list includes Boseman, who he assisted in going to a summer program at Oxford. This commitment to developing talent not only speaks to Washington’s commitment to the arts, but to his community.
We know Washington is preparing both politically and procedurally for a new Congress. First, of course, he’ll be making his Broadway debut as Othello, at the age of 70. After this, he will be portraying Hannibal, illustrating once again his range and enduring ability to thrive in the business. Washington acknowledged the inevitability of his career winding down, stating, “I don’t know how many more films Denzel Washington is gonna make, probably not that many.”
Washington was told to not disclose any specific information regarding his role in Black Panther 3. Unfortunately, he did so by accident spilling those beans in a podcast last week. He subsequently called Coogler to express his regret for breaking the news early.
“I called [Coogler] the other day. I forgot what it was about — no, I [called him to apologize],” – Denzel Washington
Coogler was very enthusiastic, and said that Washington had done much to elevate Black culture and cinema. He stated, “I think he’s the greatest living actor. In terms of what he means to our culture, forget about it. I’ve been talking to him about this for a long time, and I was surprised when he mentioned it. It’s not like it’s not true.”
