Ryan Coogler Reveals Original Black Panther 2 Story Focused on T’Challa and His Son

Director Ryan Coogler has opened up about the original storyline planned for the sequel to Black Panther, revealing that the entire concept had to be abandoned following the death of actor Chadwick Boseman.

Speaking in a recent interview, Coogler shared that the initial version of Black Panther 2 was deeply personal and centred on T’Challa as a father, alongside his young son. At the heart of the story was an ancient Wakandan tradition known as the “Ritual of 8.” According to the director, the ritual required a prince, upon turning eight, to spend eight days in the wilderness with his father, during which the child could ask any question and receive only honest answers.

The narrative was designed to place T’Challa in an intense moral and emotional conflict. While undergoing the ritual with his son, Wakanda would come under attack from Namor, forcing the king to confront a powerful enemy without breaking a sacred tradition that had never been violated. Coogler described the concept as ambitious and emotionally charged, adding that Boseman was fully prepared to take on the challenge.

Reflecting on Boseman’s passing, Coogler said the loss profoundly affected him, especially after learning from the actor’s family and friends how deeply Boseman valued their collaboration. He admitted that the original script meant a great deal to him and represented a deeper understanding of Boseman’s range as a performer, beyond what audiences had already seen in the first film.

Chadwick Boseman passed away in August 2020 at the age of 43 after a private battle with colon cancer. He was later posthumously honoured with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, attended by his wife, family members and close colleagues from the film industry.

Despite the emotional setback, Coogler went on to direct Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, reworking the sequel to honour Boseman’s legacy. Looking ahead, the filmmaker has hinted that Black Panther 3 could be his next project. He has also suggested that veteran actor Denzel Washington may be involved in the upcoming installment, sparking excitement among fans.