David Jonsson is the new Black Panther: Meet the British actor carrying on Chadwick Boseman's legacy

Marvel Studios officially confirmed a new chapter for the Black Panther franchise during this year's San Diego Comic-Con. British actor David Jonsson will take on the lead role of Prince T'Challa II in the upcoming third film, Black Panther 3. Director Ryan Coogler is returning to head the project, which will explore the character first introduced in the post-credits scene of the previous movie, Wakanda Forever.

Jonsson brings a background in theater and independent film to this major production. A graduate of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, he gained recognition for his stage work in London before appearing in films such as Rye Lane and Alien: Romulus. He also earned a BAFTA Rising Star Award in 2025. This casting marks a significant pivot for the franchise as the story moves toward the next generation of leadership in the Wakandan mythos.

Returning cast members include Letitia Wright and Winston Duke. Wright, who stepped into the Black Panther mantle following the passing of Chadwick Boseman, will appear alongside Jonsson as he moves into the central role. The film will focus on his journey as T'Challa II, the son of the original King T'Challa and Nakia, who previously lived in anonymity in Haiti.

While the announcement has generated significant attention, audiences have time to prepare for the film's debut. Marvel scheduled the release date for December 15, 2028. This allows significant lead time for the production process as Coogler crafts the next installment of the Wakanda saga.