Damson Idris is finally addressing the growing speculation that he could be Marvel’s pick to take over the role of T’Challa in Black Panther 3.
Speaking with Variety on the Golden Globes red carpet, the F1: The Movie star addressed the rumors head-on while still keeping things careful and respectful.
“I am thankful to the fans,” Idris said. “Of course it’s rumor, but I love that movie. I love the world. I’m glad that everyone seeing the future of that too. It’s moving in a brilliant direction, and I’m excited for the third one.”
The chatter around Idris has grown in recent months as fans continue debating the future of Black Panther following the death of Chadwick Boseman in 2020. Boseman’s T’Challa was honored in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, which ended with his sister Shuri (Letitia Wright) stepping into the mantle.
But earlier this year, the rumor mill reignited after an industry report suggested Marvel may be considering recasting T’Challa, despite prior statements indicating the studio wouldn’t replace Boseman’s portrayal. Idris quickly became one of the top names circulating online, drawing him into the center of the conversation.
He only added more fuel last year during an appearance on Today, when co-anchor Craig Melvin asked directly if Idris had any conversations about being cast as the next Black Panther. Idris groaned and attempted to dodge the yes-or-no question by responding, “Yes-no!”, prompting Melvin to joke that the answer sounded like a yes.
When the host followed up and asked whether Idris would accept the role if Marvel offered it, Idris didn’t hesitate before answering plainly: “Yes.”
Idris also previously joked about the speculation on social media back in January. After a post on X claimed he had “reportedly turned down” the role, Idris replied sarcastically in a since-deleted response, joking that he had also turned down playing James Bond, co-starring with Daniel Day-Lewis, and taking on an Eddie Murphy biopic.
