‘Black Panther’ Spin-off Series Set in Wakanda in Development at Disney Plus

A Black Panther spin-off series set in Wakanda is in the works at Disney Plus from director Ryan Coogler, who has signed a five-year deal with The Walt Disney Company.

The deal will enable Proximity to develop shows for other divisions of the Walt Disney Company as well. Along with Coogler, Proximity’s principals are Zinzi Coogler, Sev Ohanian, Ludwig Göransson, Archie Davis, and Peter Nicks. Coogler previously directed and co-wrote the hit Marvel film “Black Panther,” which takes place in the fictional African nation of Wakanda. Coogler is currently at work on the film’s sequel.

“Ryan Coogler is a singular storyteller whose vision and range have made him one of the standout filmmakers of his generation,” said Bob Iger, executive chairman of  The Walt Disney Company. “With ‘Black Panther,’ Ryan brought a groundbreaking story and iconic characters to life in a real, meaningful, and memorable way, creating a watershed cultural moment. We’re thrilled to strengthen our relationship and look forward to telling more great stories with Ryan and his team.”

“It’s an honor to be partnering with The Walt Disney Company,” Coogler said. “Working with them on ‘Black Panther’ was a dream come true. As avid consumers of television, we couldn’t be happier to be launching our television business with Bob Iger, Dana Walden, and all the amazing studios under the Disney umbrella. We look forward to learning, growing, and building a relationship with audiences all over the world through the Disney platforms. We are especially excited that we will be taking our first leap with Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, and their partners at Marvel Studios where we will be working closely with them on select MCU shows for Disney+. We’re already in the mix on some projects that we can’t wait to share.”

The deal was negotiated on behalf of Proximity Media by WME, Charles King of M88, and Jonathan Gardner, Esq. of Cohen & Gardner.

“Black Panther” was a smash hit for Disney and Marvel, grossing nearly $1.35 billion worldwide. It created a global zeitgeist groundswell and became the first superhero film to get a Best Picture Oscar nomination. Star Chadwick Boseman died last year, and Coogler and Disney are moving forward with a sequel he has written, one that will not recast another actor in that role.