Denzel Washington is contemplating retirement from acting, but not before potentially joining the “Black Panther” franchise, a move that could mark an exciting new chapter in his illustrious career. In a recent interview with Australia’s “Today,” the Oscar-winning star of “Gladiator II” shared his intention to limit his film projects moving forward, stating, “I’m going to retire” after finishing several upcoming roles.
In a surprising revelation, Washington mentioned that Ryan Coogler is crafting a role for him in the next installment of “Black Panther.” While this statement has not yet been officially confirmed and details regarding a third film have yet to be announced, the prospect of Washington entering the Marvel Cinematic Universe is certainly intriguing for fans.
Washington is in the spotlight currently for his commendable performance as Macrinus in “Gladiator II,” which is generating Oscar buzz. His future projects include iconic roles as Othello, Hannibal, and King Lear, along with collaboration with director Steve McQueen in a new film. He is also expected to team up with Spike Lee for an upcoming A24 project, showcasing his versatility and dedication to the craft.
Should Washington’s role in “Black Panther” materialize, it would mark his first appearance in the Marvel franchise. The actor has expressed admiration for the original “Black Panther,” even sharing how the film moved him to tears when he first watched it. His connection to the series is further deepened by his relationship with Chadwick Boseman, the late star of the franchise. Washington played a significant role in supporting Boseman during his early career, demonstrating his commitment to nurturing talent in Hollywood.
Although Washington has discussed retirement before, indicating that few films inspire him at this stage, his potential involvement in a “Black Panther” sequel suggests that the right opportunity might ignite the passion he has for the craft once more.
Overall, this news presents a hopeful and exciting possibility for both Washington and “Black Panther” enthusiasts, as it could lead to a remarkable addition to the franchise and significantly enrich the cinematic landscape.
In summary, Denzel Washington is considering retirement from acting but could participate in the next “Black Panther” movie, suggesting an intriguing continuation of his storied career while contributing to a beloved franchise.