‘Black Panther’ grossed a colossal $1.3 billion at the box office. As such, a sequel for the Marvel mega-hit was always a given.

And now production on the project has taken a giant leap forward.

For critically acclaimed director Ryan Coogler is officially back in the saddle.

More on the return to Wakanda after the jump…

According THR, the filmmaker quietly closed a deal to write and direct the film’s much anticipated follow-up.

Per the same report, Marvel were naturally keen to keep the creative team as intact as possible. Especially given the consistent showers of praise heaped on the original for its authenticity and resonance with the black community.

Citing sources close to the production, Coogler will write next year with a goal to kick off filming in late 2019 or early 2020. No word yet on premiere dates, but Marvel and owners Disney have a stacked slate of blockbusters lined up in the interim.

The news comes as ‘Panther,’ which grossed a $700 million in the US alone, is being hotly tipped for Oscar nominations – a huge feat for the oft snubbed superhero category.

In the immediate, Coogler is developing  drama ‘Wrong Answer‘ with his frequent collaborator Michael B. Jordan. As reported, he’ll also be executive producing the ‘Space Jam’ sequel alongside LeBron James and will take on the same role in the upcoming flick ‘Creed 2.’

All at age 32! More power to him!

Your thoughts?

[Photo credit: Marvel]