US actor Chadwick Boseman, best known for playing a role in Black Panther in the Superhit Marvel franchise, has died after a private four-year battle with colon cancer aged 43. The news has left fans and the film world stunned.
He died at home in Los Angeles with his wife and family by his side. Boseman never publicly discussed his condition and continued to work on major Hollywood films during and between “countless” surgeries and chemotherapy, his family said in a statement.
“A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you many of the films you have come to love so much,” his family said. “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. It was the honor of his career to bring King T’Challa to life in Black Panther.
Boseman came to fame playing real-life figures, baseball great Jackie Robinson in 2013’s 42, and soul singer James Brown in 2014’s Get on Up. He became the first black superhero to get his standalone film in the record-breaking Marvel franchise, “Black Panther.”
The ruler of Wakanda, a fictional African nation with the most advanced technology on earth. The movie was praised by the critics and the audiences, becoming the first superhero film to get a nomination for best picture at the Oscars and grossing over $1 billion worldwide.
The news of his death came as a shock to many as Boseman never discussed his diagnosis publicly. However, fans started raising concerns over his health due to noticeable weight loss. Tributes have already begun pouring for the star, including from actors all around the world and fellow Marvel stars and political figures.
MarkRuffalo shared a heartfelt note for his brother, Chadwick Boseman. He wrote, “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”.
Actor Dwayne Johnson 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. “Heartbroken. My friend and fellow Bison Chadwick Boseman was brilliant, kind, learned, and humble. He left too early but his life made a difference. Sending my sincere condolences to his family”.
He also played the same role in other Marvel films Captain America: Civil War, Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame. A sequel was in the works and due to come out in 2022, with Boseman set to return.
