After quite a bit of rumors, Marvel has officially confirmed that Ryan Coogler will direct the upcoming Black Panther film set for a February 16, 2018 release date.
Chadwick Boseman will star as the titular character and will make his debut this May 6th in Captain America: Civil War.
Coogler wrote and directed the award-winning feature film, Fruitvale Station, in 2013. He recently helmed Creed which earned Sylvester Stallone a Golden Globe for Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture.
“We are fortunate to have such an esteemed filmmaker join the Marvel family,” said producer Kevin Feige. “The talents Ryan showcased in his first two films easily made him our top choice to direct ‘Black Panther.’ Many fans have waited a long time to see Black Panther in his own film, and with Ryan we know we’ve found the perfect director to bring T’Challa’s story to life.”
Black Panther is the monarch of the technologically advanced nation of Wakanda and has been a member of the Avengers in addition to his solo adventures. Marvel is launching a new Black Panther series this April which features the creative team of Ta-Nehisi Coates and Brian Stelfreeze.
Ryan Coogler is represented by WME and Cohen Gardner LLP.