Remembering Chadwick Boseman (1976–2020)
An iconic actor who was taken from us way too soon. Boseman battled colon cancer for four years as he filmed some of his biggest roles.
Yesterday, Chadwick Boseman died at the age of 43 to colon cancer. Boseman was one of the great actors of our generation, playing the iconic roles of James Brown in Get On Up (2014), Thurgood Marshall in Marshall (2017), and Jackie Robinson in 42 (2013). Boseman is best known for his groundbreaking and inspiring role in Marvel’s Black Panther as King T’Challa.
Boseman died at his home with his wife Taylor Simone Ledward by his side. In a statement to the Associated Press, it was revealed that Boseman was diagnosed with colon cancer back in 2016. Boseman was active during those four years and filmed countless films in between surgeries and chemotherapy.
Boseman during that time would star in four entries for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Starting with his debut in 2016’s Captain America: Civil War. In 2018, Boseman would star in Black Panther. The film would be a box office behemoth and a cultural phenomenon. It would also become the first comic book movie to earn a nomination for Best Picture at the Oscars. Boseman would also star in both Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, two of the top five highest-grossing films of all time.
“We are all heartbroken by the tragic loss of Chadwick Boseman — an extraordinary talent, and one of the most gentle and giving souls I have ever met,” said Disney Executive Chairman Bob Iger, “He brought enormous strength, dignity, and depth to his groundbreaking role of Black Panther; shattering myths and stereotypes, becoming a long-awaited hero to millions around the world, and inspiring us all to dream bigger and demand more than the status quo. We mourn all that he was, as well as everything he was destined to become. For his friends and millions of fans, his absence from the screen is only eclipsed by his absence from our lives. All of us at Disney send our prayers and heartfelt condolences to his family.”
Kevin Feige, Marvel Studios President, and Marvel Chief Creative Officer released a statement on Boseman’s passing:
“Chadwick’s passing is absolutely devastating. He was our T’Challa, our Black Panther, and our dear friend. Each time he stepped on set, he radiated charisma and joy, and each time he appeared on screen, he created something truly indelible. He embodied a lot of amazing people in his work, and nobody was better at bringing great men to life. He was as smart and kind and powerful and strong as any person he portrayed. Now he takes his place alongside them as an icon for the ages. The Marvel Studios family deeply mourns his loss, and we are grieving tonight with his family.”
Chris Evans, who starred with Boseman in the Avengers films, expressed his sadness at the news:
“I’m absolutely devastated. This is beyond heartbreaking. Chadwick was special. A true original. He was a deeply committed and constantly curious artist. Few performers have such power and versatility. He had so much amazing work still left to create. I’m endlessly grateful for our friendship. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Rest in power, King.”
Brie Larson, Boseman’s Avengers: Endgame co-star and star of Marvel’s Captain Marvel shared her thoughts on Boseman’s passing:
“Chadwick was someone who radiated power and peace. Who stood for so much more than himself. Who took the time to really see how you were doing and gave words of encouragement when you felt unsure. I’m honored to have the memories I have. The conversations, the laughter. My heart is with you and your family. You will be missed and never forgotten. Rest in power and peace my friend.”
Chadwick Boseman kept his diagnosis under wraps and continued to give performances that will be remembered forever. His role as King T’Challa in Black Panther will remain an inspiration and icon forever.
Chadwick Boseman’s death is painful. It’s shocking and upsetting when someone who has contributed so much good and happiness to the world is taken away from us too soon. The world mourns as Boseman was an inspiration to a ton of people. He gave representation to children of color who desperately needed it. His work will be remembered alongside all the icons.
It’s just a shame he was taken from the world too soon. Similar to Kobe Bryant and Howard Ashman, we are left with imagining all the other things they could’ve accomplished if they only had time.
Boseman made quite an impact in his life. His impact and legacy will live on.
Thank you, Chadwick Boseman.
Zach Perilstein is the Editor-in-Chief of the Boardwalk Times
