Denzel Washington recently shared that his role in Black Panther 3 will likely be one of his final performances before stepping away from the big screen.

Denzel Washington
PARIS, FRANCE – NOVEMBER 10: Denzel Washington attends the “Gladiator II” Premiere at Pathe Palace on November 10, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Stephane Cardinale – Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images)

As Washington reflects on his remarkable career, his involvement in the iconic Black Panther series brings his journey full circle, given his long-standing impact on the industry and his inspiration to generations of Black actors.

Chadwick Bossman
Actor Chadwick Boseman arrives for the 90th Annual Academy Awards on March 4, 2018, in Hollywood, California. (Photo by VALERIE MACON / AFP) (Photo by VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty Images)

The late Chadwick Boseman, who portrayed T’Challa in the Black Panther films, once deeply admired Washington, famously saying, “There’s no Black Panther without Denzel.” Boseman credited Washington’s trailblazing career as a pivotal influence, with Washington’s legacy opening doors for many emerging Black actors, including himself.

Washington’s participation in the upcoming film adds profound weight and nostalgia to the project, especially for fans who remember Boseman’s words. It’s an opportunity for Washington to honor his legacy and those he’s influenced, culminating in a cinematic milestone before his potential retirement.