Black Panther 3: New Wakanda (2026) brings an exciting new chapter to the Black Panther legacy, with Will Smith joining the star-studded cast and introducing fresh dimensions to the world of Wakanda. Set in a post-Blip world, this third installment explores the evolution of Wakanda as it faces rising global tensions, a new breed of enemies, and internal struggles over leadership and unity. Shuri (Letitia Wright) has continued to lead Wakanda after T’Challa’s passing, but the weight of her duties is becoming heavier as both external and internal threats loom larger.
The first trailer reveals stunning glimpses of Wakanda’s progress since the last film, with the country embracing advanced technologies and opening up cautiously to the world. The peace is soon shattered, however, when a mysterious new power, portrayed by Will Smith, arrives with his own vision for Wakanda and a past tied to its legacy. Smith’s character, an enigmatic and skilled leader with both tactical expertise and charm, brings both inspiration and unease as he begins to sway factions of Wakanda’s society.
The trailer showcases high-stakes action scenes, including breathtaking aerial combat, intense hand-to-hand battles, and a glimpse of a vast underwater conflict as Wakanda seeks alliances with other hidden kingdoms. As tensions rise, Shuri is forced to reevaluate what it truly means to protect Wakanda while balancing her late brother’s ideals with the country’s new reality. The trailer also teases the return of M’Baku (Winston Duke) and Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o), each with their own loyalties and vision for Wakanda’s future, leading to intense dynamics that promise powerful confrontations and deep emotional resonance.
With a reported budget of over $250 million, Black Panther 3: New Wakanda promises state-of-the-art visuals, a gripping storyline, and powerful themes of unity, legacy, and identity. Directed by Ryan Coogler, the film dives deeper into the socio-political complexities of Wakanda and its future on the world stage, while introducing a mysterious and compelling new figure with Will Smith’s captivating portrayal. This third chapter is expected to redefine Wakanda’s legacy and captivate audiences worldwide, making it a landmark installment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.