LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – Chadwick Boseman, the acclaimed actor who portrayed the beloved “Black Panther” superhero in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, tragically passed away on Friday at the age of 43 after bravely battling cancer for four years. Boseman’s untimely demise occurred at his residence in Los Angeles, where he was surrounded by his wife, relatives, and the talented singer Taylor Simone Ledward during his final moments.
Described by his family as “a true fighter,” Boseman had been diagnosed with colon cancer in 2016, a fact he chose to keep private, confiding only in his inner circle. Despite the public’s growing concern over his visibly deteriorating appearance in photographs circulating on social media, the actor remained steadfast in his decision to maintain secrecy about his health condition.
In a statement shared on Boseman’s Instagram and Twitter accounts, his family expressed their admiration for his resilience, acknowledging the immense challenges he faced while simultaneously delivering the remarkable performances that have captivated audiences worldwide. From his portrayal of Thurgood Marshall in “Marshall” to his recent role in “Da 5 Bloods” directed by Spike Lee, as well as his upcoming appearance in “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” based on the play by August Wilson, Boseman’s dedication to his craft never wavered, despite undergoing numerous surgeries and enduring rigorous chemotherapy sessions. The family also emphasized that bringing the character of King T’Challa to life in “Black Panther” was undoubtedly the highlight of Boseman’s illustrious career.
— Chadwick Boseman (@chadwickboseman) August 29, 2020
It is worth noting that Chadwick Boseman’s acting journey was significantly influenced by the esteemed Denzel Washington, who not only inspired him but also generously funded his college education at Oxford University. In recognition of his exceptional talent, Boseman received the Screen Actors Guild Award for Best Ensemble for his role in “Black Panther” in 2019.
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While Boseman’s portrayal of T’Challa in the Marvel movies, including “Captain America: Civil War,” “Black Panther,” “Avengers: Infinity War,” and “Avengers: Endgame,” propelled him to global fame, his repertoire extends beyond the superhero genre. The gifted actor also captivated audiences with his outstanding performances as iconic figures such as James Brown in “Get on Up,” Thurgood Marshall in “Marshall,” and Jackie Robinson in “42.”
Notably, Boseman recently starred in Spike Lee’s war drama “Da 5 Bloods,” which premiered on Netflix in June. Additionally, he had completed filming for the movie adaptation of August Wilson’s stage play, “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” where he shared the screen with the immensely talented Viola Davis. The film is set to be released later this year, serving as a poignant reminder of Boseman’s exceptional acting prowess.
The devastating news of Chadwick Boseman’s passing has left his devoted fans and fellow Marvel co-stars in profound grief. Many have taken to social media to express their heartfelt tributes and condolences, mourning the loss of a truly remarkable talent.
Our hearts are broken and our thoughts are with Chadwick Boseman’s family. Your legacy will live on forever. Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/DyibBLoBxz
— Marvel Studios (@MarvelStudios) August 29, 2020
https://twitter.com/ChrisEvans/status/1299550103221555200
All I have to say is the tragedies amassing this year have only been made more profound by the loss of #ChadwickBoseman. What a man, and what an immense talent. Brother, you were one of the all time greats and your greatness was only beginning. Lord love ya. Rest in power, King.
— Mark Ruffalo (@MarkRuffalo) August 29, 2020
i will miss you, birthday brother. you were always light and love to me. my god … ✌🏿♥️✊🏿 🙅🏿♂️ forever and ever … https://t.co/9pORaKZuQN pic.twitter.com/awX3DiTVwn
— Don "but not forgotten" Cheadle (@DonCheadle) August 29, 2020
My prayers go out to Chadwick’s family and loved ones. The world will miss his tremendous talent. God rest his soul. #wakandaforever https://t.co/j5JWSeiqd5
— Chris Pratt (@prattprattpratt) August 29, 2020
My heart breaks hearing this tragic news. RIP, Chadwick Boseman. 🕊❤️ pic.twitter.com/62NmDViO7K
— HTGAWM (@fyeahtgawm) August 29, 2020
This is a crushing blow.
— Jordan Peele (@JordanPeele) August 29, 2020
A warrior of light til the very end. A true king. I am without words. May he rise in power. https://t.co/50nfbvZpAq
— kerry washington (@kerrywashington) August 29, 2020
I don’t have words. Rest In Peace, Bruh. Thank you for all you did while you were here. Thank you for being a friend. You are loved. You will be missed. 🤜🏿🤛🏿 https://t.co/8rK4dWmorq
— Sterling K Brown (@SterlingKBrown) August 29, 2020
Devastating news. We lost a great one. Takoto mai rā e Āriki. #chadwickboseman
— Taika Waititi (@TaikaWaititi) August 29, 2020
— Brie Larson (@brielarson) August 29, 2020
Hard to hear about this.
Rest in love, brother.
Thank you for shining your light and sharing your talent with the world. My love and strength to your family. https://t.co/hNAWav7Cq8— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) August 29, 2020
Truly a gentleman superstar on screen and in life. Pure excellence and class and grace. https://t.co/yTCGrwZaJM
— Gabrielle Union (@itsgabrielleu) August 29, 2020
❤️❤️❤️thank you for the gifts you gave to us while you were here. https://t.co/fvgFMCz89v
— ashton kutcher (@aplusk) August 29, 2020
An immeasurable loss. From "Black Panther" to "Da 5 Bloods," Chadwick Boseman brought strength and light to the screen, every time. pic.twitter.com/vRXxYU8Tbr
— The Academy (@TheAcademy) August 29, 2020