Marvel announced yesterday that Creed and Fruitvale Station director Ryan Coogler will helm the highly anticipated MCU Black Panther film. Previously, the gig was offered to Ava DuVernay, who declined.
Producer Kevin Feige said of the decision: “We are fortunate to have such an esteemed filmmaker join the Marvel family. 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.”
Coogler will direct Chadwick Boseman as T’Challa, king of the technologically-advanced nation of Wakanda and member of the Avengers. Black Panther will make his debut in Captain America: Civil War May 6, and his solo film is slated for Feb. 16, 2018.