'Black Panther 3': F1 Star, Damson Idris, Fuels Speculation About T’Challa Role

Could Damson Idris be the next King of Wakanda?

The 'F1' star has reignited speculation about stepping into the role of T’Challa in 'Black Panther 3', giving fans even more reason to believe the long-standing rumours may be true. While he hasn’t confirmed anything outright, Idris certainly didn’t shut the door either.

During an appearance on Today, the 33-year-old actor was directly asked by co-anchor Craig Melvin whether there was any truth to the swirling rumours about him being cast as the next 'Black Panther'. Melvin posed the question in a rapid-fire yes-or-no format, asking if Damson Idris had ever engaged in any conversations about taking on the iconic Marvel role.

Image Courtesy: People

In response, Damson Idris let out a dramatic groan and offered a deliberately vague “yes-no” answer, clearly trying to sidestep the speculation while still leaving room for interpretation. Melvin playfully suggested that such an answer basically meant “yes,” but Damson Idris quickly countered that it could also mean “no.” Still, his reluctance to offer a clear denial only added fuel to the fire.

When pressed further about whether he would accept the role if Marvel came calling, Idris responded affirmatively — a response that sent fans into overdrive online.

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Will Marvel Recast T’Challa?

The idea of recasting T’Challa has been an emotional and highly debated topic ever since Chadwick Boseman’s heartbreaking death in 2020. Initially, Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige announced that the character would not be recast in 'Black Panther: Wakanda Forever', honouring Boseman’s legacy. However, recent reports suggest that the studio may now be reconsidering that stance and quietly exploring potential candidates for the role in 'Black Panther 3'.

Image Courtesy: The Hollywood Reporter

As fan speculation intensified, Damson Idris quickly became one of the most talked-about contenders. Known for his breakout performance in 'Snowfall' and now starring in the upcoming 'F1', the British actor has found himself at the centre of casting rumours. A viral social media post once claimed that Damson Idris had already passed on the chance to play T’Challa — but the actor wasn’t about to let that slide. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Idris fired back with a heavy dose of sarcasm, joking that he’d also turned down starring in a 'James Bond' movie, a film alongside Daniel Day-Lewis, and even an Eddie Murphy biopic. 

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Marvel, Ryan Coogler, and the Legacy of T’Challa

Director Ryan Coogler has remained quiet on any casting decisions related to 'Black Panther 3', but he has spoken openly about the emotional weight of continuing the franchise without Boseman, describing the moment he learned of the actor’s death as when his heart truly broke.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

Meanwhile, Lupita Nyong’o, who portrays Nakia, recently stated that she isn’t involved in discussions about recasting T’Challa. Her focus, she said, remains on honouring the legacy of the movie and the man who helped define it.

Whether or not Damson Idris ultimately dons the Black Panther suit remains to be seen, but one thing is clear — fans are watching closely. With 'F1' racing into theatres on 27th June, the timing of his rising profile could align perfectly with Marvel’s evolving plans.

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