Marvel Studios said Saturday that David Jonsson will portray the adult son of T'Challa in the upcoming film Black Panther 3 [1].
The casting introduces the next generation of the Black Panther legacy, continuing the storyline established in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever [2]. By aging up the character, the studio is shifting the narrative focus toward the future of the Wakandan throne.
The announcement took place during Marvel's Hall H panel at San Diego Comic-Con on July 25, 2026 [1]. Jonsson will play the character known as Prince T'Challa II, who is also referred to as Toussaint [4].
This move marks a significant step in the franchise's evolution as it transitions from the original protector of Wakanda to his offspring. The film is scheduled for a theatrical release in December 2028 [2]. Some reports specify the release date as Dec. 15, 2028 [3].
Ryan Coogler is returning as director to helm the third installment [5]. The production aims to explore the growth of the young prince into a leader capable of carrying the mantle of the Black Panther. While the previous film introduced the child, Jonsson's role will depict the character as a grown man.
Marvel has not yet released a full plot synopsis, or additional casting details for the supporting roles. The studio used the high-profile platform of Comic-Con to signal the direction of the franchise to its global fanbase [1].
“David Jonsson will portray the adult son of T'Challa in the upcoming film Black Panther 3”
The decision to cast an adult actor as T'Challa's son suggests a time jump in the cinematic universe. This allows Marvel to maintain the thematic weight of the Black Panther legacy while moving past the immediate grief of the previous films, effectively resetting the hero's journey with a new protagonist.
