Black Panther Actor Chadwick Boseman Passes Away At 43

By Emmanuel Awosika

Chadwick Boseman, who found fame playing T’Challa, ruler of fictional African nation Wakanda in the blockbuster sci-fi film Black Panther, has passed away aged 43.

News of Boseman’s death was announced in a statement by the star’s publicist Nikki Fioravante on Friday.

According to a statement from his family, Boseman had been diagnosed with colon cancer four years ago.

He had kept news of his condition private and had filmed more movies during that period including Spike Lee’s Da 5 Bloods, Ms Rainey’s Black Bottom Up and Black Panther, his most successful performance to date.

“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 Wilsons Ma Raineys 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 TChalla to life in Black Panther,” his family said in a statement.

Since news of the actor’s passing broke, tributes have poured in from all corners. Fellow star Mark Ruffalo, who played Hulk alongside Boseman in the Marvel franchise, said:

“All I have to say is the tragedies amassing this year have only been made more profound by the loss of Chadwick Boseman,” he said. “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.”

Other Marvel co-stars including Chris Evans, Don Cheadle, Mark Hamil, Ryan Reynolds, and Brie Larson have also mourned the late actor.

Marvel Studios President, Kevin Feige, described Boseman’s passing as “absolutely devastating”, saying the star radiated charisma and joy, and each time he appeared on screen and “created something truly indelible.”

Democratic Party Presidential candidate Joe Biden and his running mate, Kamala Harris, also mourned Boseman in statements released on social media.

Chadwick Boseman’s last appearance on screen was in director Spike Lee’s film Da 5 Bloods, a film about five black soldiers fighting in the Vietnam War.

He was also set to reprise his role as T’Challa in the Black Panther franchise sequel due to come out in 2022.