Hollywood actor Chadwick Boseman, best known for playing Black Panther in the hit Marvel superhero franchise has died of cancer at the age of 43 years old. He died at home in Los Angeles with his wife and family by his side, a statement posted on social media said. Chadwick Boseman was diagnosed with colon cancer four years ago but had not made the information public.
The news has left fans and the film world stunned. Movie director Jordan Peele said his death was “a crushing blow”. He described him as a true fighter.
According to his words; “A true fighter, Chadwick Boseman persevered through it all, and brought you many of the films you have come to love so much. From Marshall to Da 5 Bloods and several more – all were filmed during and between countless surgeries and chemotherapy. It was the honor of his career to bring King T’Challa to life in Black Panther.”
Chadwick Boseman came to prominence after his role in the historic drama Black Panther which was released in 2018 and believed to be the best historic drama in the world. In the movie Black Panther, Chadwick Boseman stars as the ruler of Wakanda, a fictional African nation with the most advanced technology on earth.
The movie won him critical praise and garnering more than $1.3 billion US dollars at the cinemas worldwide. The film was widely seen as a cultural milestone for having a largely black cast and a black director, Ryan Coogler. Chadwick Boseman said last year that the film had changed what it means to be “young, gifted and black”.
Black Panther was the first superhero film to get a nomination for best picture at the Oscar Award. He also played the same role in other Marvel films such as Captain America, Civil War, Avengers, Infinity War and Endgame.
The news of his death came as a shock to many as Chadwick Boseman never discussed his illness and diagnosis publicly. However, fans started raising concerns over his health this year due to noticeable weight loss.
Tributes have already begun pouring in for the star actor, including from actor and fellow Marvel star Mark Ruffalo. Actor Dwayne Johnson also known as The Rock tweeted: “Thank you for shining your light and sharing your talent with the world. My love and strength to your family.”
Political figures have also started paying their respects, including Democratic vice presidential nominee Kamala Harris. Former President Barack Obama added his voice to the tributes, describing Chadwick Boseman as “blessed child” and praising his contribution to the growth of American movie industry popularly known as Hollywood.
Born in South Carolina as the son of a nurse and an upholstery entrepreneur, Chadwick Boseman graduated from Howard University in Washington DC. Despite playing tremendous roles on television, it wasn’t until 2013 that he came into the limelight. In 2018, Chadwick Boseman returned to his university to speak at its graduation ceremony.
According to his words; “Some of you here struggled against the university itself. Many of you will leave Howard and enter systems and institutions that have a history of discrimination and marginalization. The fact that you have struggled with this university which you love is a sign that you can use your education to improve the world that you are entering.” He stated during his speech at the university graduation ceremony.
Chadwick Boseman is an actor that will always be remembered due to his humanitarian services to the less privileged. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
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