David Jonsson: the London rising star handpicked to be the new Black Panther
British actor David Jonsson has been cast as the new Black Panther in the upcoming Marvel film, Black Panther 3. The selection was personally championed by director Ryan Coogler following Jonsson's rise in acclaimed stage and screen roles.
Why it matters
The Black Panther franchise is a significant cultural touchstone for representation in cinema, making the casting of its lead a major industry and cultural event.
David Jonsson has won widespread acclaim for roles in Industry, Rye Lane and Wasteman. Photograph: Dean Chalkley/The Observer David Jonsson has won widespread acclaim for roles in Industry, Rye Lane and Wasteman. Photograph: Dean Chalkley/The Observer Movies Profile David Jonsson: the London rising star handpicked to be the new Black Panther Jonsson has come a long way from east London’s Docklands, winning accolades on stage and screen
Prefer the Guardian on Google Few characters carry the cultural weight of Black Panther. Since 2018, the Wakandan king has become a global symbol of Black excellence, credited with reshaping expectations of representation on screen.
The first film grossed more than $1.3bn (£1bn) worldwide, won three Oscars and became the first superhero movie nominated for best picture.
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