From the Docklands to Wakanda: David Jonsson named next Black Panther

Marvel Studios has officially cast British actor David Jonsson as the next Black Panther for the upcoming third film in the franchise. Jonsson will portray T’Challa’s son, succeeding the late Chadwick Boseman, who passed away in 2020. Director Ryan Coogler selected Jonsson following a private meeting after the completion of the film Sinners. The announcement was unveiled at Comic-Con in San Diego, where Coogler introduced Jonsson to an audience that responded with chants of “Wakanda forever”. Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios, confirmed that Coogler had recommended Jonsson for the role six months prior to the public reveal.

Jonsson, aged 32, grew up in Custom House, Newham, in east London’s Docklands, and is the youngest of four children. His heritage is described as Creole, with roots in Nigeria, Sierra Leone, the Caribbean, and Sweden. Jonsson was expelled from school as a teenager for fighting but later won a scholarship to the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York at age 16. He left drama school early to join a West End revival of Mary Stuart opposite Juliet Stevenson.

His recent credits include leading roles in Rye Lane (2023), Alien: Romulus (2024), The Long Walk, and Wasteman. Jonsson received the Bafta Rising Star award and a British Independent Film Award (Bifa) nomination for his work. Paul Roseby, CEO of the National Youth Theatre, highlighted Jonsson’s “electrifying” performance in Pigeon English in 2013 and his generosity in mentoring current talent.

The character of Black Panther has carried significant cultural weight since 2018, becoming a global symbol of Black excellence. The first film grossed more than $1.3bn (£1bn) worldwide, won three Oscars, and became the first superhero movie nominated for best picture. Jonsson’s ascent from the east London Docklands to one of Hollywood’s most coveted roles marks a significant moment in representation on screen.

Jonsson has spoken about the importance of his roles, stating that he aims to define what it means to be Black in the industry. He noted that while he grew up with stars like Denzel Washington and Idris Elba, there is not enough space for diverse talent. His warm demeanor and sense of decency have been noted by interviewers, qualities that align with the humility and grace Boseman was known for.

The mantle of Black Panther passed previously to Letitia Wright’s Shuri in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022). Jonsson now inherits the character’s name and legacy, stepping into the role of Wakanda’s royal family. The announcement at Comic-Con in San Diego marks the beginning of a new chapter for the franchise, with Jonsson poised to bring his own interpretation to the iconic character.

The casting of David Jonsson reflects a broader shift in Hollywood towards diverse storytelling and representation. His journey from a troubled teenager in east London to a Bafta-winning actor underscores the changing landscape of the entertainment industry. As the next Black Panther, Jonsson carries the weight of a global legacy while bringing a fresh perspective to the role.