Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige shared details on how David Jonsson was cast as the next Black Panther, revealing that Ryan Coogler met Jonsson in a secret meeting. Feige explained that Coogler. While working on his film “Sinners. ” identified Jonsson as the ideal lead for the upcoming “Black Panther 3.” According to Variety, Feige said Coogler contacted him with the news, stating, “I found him.”.

Coogler’s Personal Involvement in Casting

Coogler’s involvement in the casting process was more proactive than Marvel had initially planned; Feige noted that they had not yet begun a search for the new Black Panther but were waiting until after the Academy Awards. However, Coogler reached out and insisted on meeting Jonsson under “cloak of darkness in a hotel somewhere.” After the meeting, Feige said Coogler called and declared, “He’s the guy, he’s the guy, I felt it. I felt it in my soul.”

Feige added that he was “chilled” and “a little welled-up” after the call and agreed to move forward with Jonsson, and the announcement of Jonsson as the new Black Panther was made at Marvel’s Hall H panel during San Diego Comic-Con. Jonsson will portray T’Challa’s son in the film, which is set to release on Dec. 15, 2028.

Returning Cast and New Chapter

Original “Black Panther” cast members Leticia Wright and Winston Duke will return for the new chapter. The film will follow Prince T’Challa II as he comes of age and takes up the Black Panther mantle. Feige did not reveal further details about the story but confirmed that the search for Jonsson had not officially begun when Coogler made the recommendation.

Jonsson is known for his role in “The Long Walk,” and Feige confirmed he had seen some of his previous work. He watched more of Jonsson’s films after Coogler suggested him. The secret meeting, as described by Feige, was an unusual but effective way to secure the casting before any official search began.

Coogler’s Other Projects

Coogler is also involved in another major project—a reboot of the “X-Files” series. According to Filmstarts, Coogler is set to write, direct, and produce the new “X-Files” pilot for Hulu. The reboot will be led by Jennifer Yale as showrunner, with original creator Chris Carter also serving as a producer. Coogler’s recent Oscar-nominated film, “Blood & Sinners,” has earned him critical acclaim and industry recognition.

While the “X-Files” reboot is still in its early stages, the involvement of Coogler and Carter signals a strong creative direction. The original “X-Files” series, which aired for nine seasons and included a film and two revival episodes, has a dedicated fanbase and is considered a milestone in the mystery and sci-fi genres.

With both “Black Panther 3” and the potential “X-Files” reboot, Coogler is demonstrating his versatility as a filmmaker. His secret meeting with David Jonsson highlights his hands-on approach to casting and his influence in major Hollywood productions. As “Black Panther 3” continues to be developed, fans are eagerly awaiting more details about the new Black Panther and the film’s storyline.