Hollywood Bids Farewell to “Black Panther” Star Chadwick Boseman

Chadwick Boseman in 2018. Photo by Matteo Prandoni/BFA/REX/Shutterstock (9375119n)

American actor Chadwick Boseman, who broke new grounds with his career-defining role in Black Panther and portrayed several iconic historical figures throughout his career, passed away at age 43.

Boseman was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2016, but never made his diagnoses public and starred in several critically acclaimed films over the course of the past four years.

“It was the honor of his career to bring King T’Challa to life in Black Panther. He died in his home, with his wife and family by his side. The family thanks you for your love and prayers, and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time,” reads the official statement released by the actor’s family.

Many Hollywood stars paid tribute to Boseman and praised his talent, kindness, and grace, including his Marvel co-stars Chris Evans, Robert Downey Jr., and Angela Bassett.

Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios, released an official statement sending Marvel family’s condolences to Boseman’s loved ones. “He embodied a lot of amazing people in his work, and nobody was better at bringing great men to life. He was as smart and kind and powerful and strong as any person he portrayed. Now he takes his place alongside them as an icon for the ages,” said Feige.

Chadwick Boseman established himself as one of the most promising actors of his generation after playing baseball legend Jackie Robinson in 42. In addition to playing Black Panther in the MCU, he also portrayed James Brown in Get on Up and Thurgood Marshall in Marshall. His last film Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom will be released later this year.