The world was thrown into shock when a tweet on Saturday 29th of August announced the death of Chadwick Boseman, one of the stars of the popular Hollywood flick, Black Panther.
“It is with immeasurable grief that we confirm the passing of Chadwick Boseman. Chadwick was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016, and battled with it these last 4 years as it progressed to stage IV. 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,” the tweet, which has thrown the movie fraternity into mourning since Saturday, read.
Chadwick Aaron Boseman, an American actor and producer, was born in November 29, 1976 to an African American parent in Anderson, South Carolina. He graduated from T.L Hanna High school in 1995 where he wrote his first play, Crossroads, which was staged at the school after a classmate was shot and killed.
It has always been his dream to write and direct, which prompted his decision to begin studying acting to relate to actors. He later graduated from New York City’s Digital Film Academy.
The US actor was best known for playing Black Panther in the Marvel superhero franchise which gave him critical praise and a pay of $2 million for his role and his earnings was expected to climb even higher in the sequel scheduled for 2022. Black Panther was widely seen as a cultural milestone for having a largely black cast and a black director.
His battle with cancer, which was kept away publicly, didn’t stop his work and according to his family, “A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you many films you have come to love so much.
“From Marshal 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. It was the honour of his career to bring King T’Challa to life in Black Panther.”
Chadwick 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 Oscars.
He has also played same role in other Marvel films Captain America: Civil War, Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame.
Lots of tributes have been pouring in for the star, from fellow actors and politicians: fellow Marvel star Mark Rufallo,” All I have to say is the tragedy amassing this year have only been made more profound by the loss of Chadwick Boseman. What a man, and what an immense talent. Brother, you were one of the all-time great and your greatness was only beginning. Lord loves ya. Rest in power, King.”
Former President Barack Obama described Boseman as “blessed” and praising his contribution: ”Chadwick came to the White House to work with kids when he was playing Jackie Robinson. You could tell right away that he was blessed. To be young, gifted, and black; to use that power to give them heroes to look up to; to do it all while in pain – what a use of his years.”
Despite several years playing roles on television, it wasn’t until 2013 that he hit the big time in the movie 42. The world at large will greatly miss the great ruler of Wakanda.
