The highly-anticipated sequel to Marvel’s record-shattering box office success Black Panther has been in the works for some time. But it wasn’t until this afternoon that we officially learned director and writer Ryan Coogler would return to helm the follow-up project.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Coogler “quietly closed a deal to write and direct the sequel” a few months ago, an unsurprising move considering the first film’s success.
The report adds: “Sources say the plan at this stage is for Coogler to write next year with an eye to start production in either late 2019 or early 2020.” This timeline has not yet been confirmed by Marvel Studios, but is in line with industry speculation.
Many fans are ecstatic over the return of the beloved creator, taking to Twitter to voice their support.
GURLZ GET IN FORMATION! Black Panther 2!! Come on Ryan Coogler yasss! Get the bag! Biggest solo MCU film and biggest mcu domestic! We stan a King!
— Jason (Crown Clown) (@EscaflowneClown) October 11, 2018
Little is known about the forthcoming film, but you can expect much of the original cast to return under Coogler’s direction—assuming Infinity War didn’t wreak more havoc than we realized.
Until then, Coogler is set to produce Space Jam 2, starring LeBron James. Plus, his new take on the Rocky franchise, Creed II, is set to hit theaters November 21. It will star Black Panther alumnus Michael B. Jordan as Adonis Creed.
Coogler is developing the drama Wrong Answer with his frequent collaborator and Black Panther star Michael B. Jordan. He also is executive producing LeBron James’ Space Jam sequel and acts in the same capacity on the upcoming Creed 2.
Coogler is repped by WME and Cohen & Gardner.