In shocking news, it has been confirmed that rising star and lead Black Panther actor Chadwick Boseman has passed away after a private four year battle with colon cancer. He had been originally diagnosed in 2016, but he had decided not to publicly reveal the condition.
“It is with immeasurable grief that we confirm the passing of Chadwick Boseman. It was the honor of his life to bring King T’Challa to life in Black Panther,” said a statement posted to his official Twitter feed late today. An official Instagram post also gave further details.: “Chadwick was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016, and battled with it these last 4 years as it progressed to stage IV. A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you many of the films you have come to love so much. From Marshall to Da 5 Bloods, August Wilson’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom and several more, all were filmed during and between countless surgeries and chemotherapy. 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.”
Boseman’s career ignited with his portrayals in several biopics such as Jackie Robinson 42 (2013) and as James Brown in 2014’s Get on Up. His other prominent work included: Kill Hole (2013), Draft Day (2014) opposite Kevin Costner, Gods of Egypt (2016) as Thoth, and 2019 thriller 21 Bridges. But it was as Prince/King T’Challa in the Marvel movies that ignited his career, appearing in 2016’s Captain America: Civil War, the eponymous Black Panther (2018), Avengers: Infinity War (2018) and Avengers: Endgame (2019) – the latter becoming the biggest movie of all time. There had been plans for him to reprise his royal superhero in a Black Panther sequel scheduled for 2022. The character and his impact was quite profound, the solo-outing proving once and for all that a mainstream Hollywood superhero movie could cater and include black and African culture and appeal far beyond a key demographic.
One of the many tributes pouring in this evening included one from Cc-star Chris Evans, who tweeted:
– – –
“Wakanda Forever…”
