Chadwick Boseman dies at 43. (Photo: AP)Hollywood actor Chadwick Boseman, who gained fame for his role as Black Panther/King T’Challa in the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies, has died after battling colon cancer for four years. He was 43. Besides Black Panther, Boseman was known for his performances in 42, Captain America: Civil War, Marshall, Avengers: Infinity War, 21 Bridges and Da 5 Bloods. His film Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is yet to be released.
His family released a statement on social media which read, “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. 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 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. 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 death of Chadwick Boseman has come as a shock to the film industry. Celebrities are paying tribute to the actor.
Actor Samuel L Jackson thanked Chadwick Boseman for his contribution to cinema. In a tweet, he wrote, "THANK YOU @chadwickboseman for all you gave us. We needed it & will always cherish it! A talented & giving artist & brother who will be sorely missed"
Remembering Chadwick Boseman, Calvin Roberson wrote, "My heart sank. What an amazing testament he was to strength and tenacity. He accomplished great feats portraying Black American icons, while battling a terminal illness. His legacy lives on. Prayers for his wife and family."
Khloe Kardashian said the news of Chadwick Boseman passing away is "beyond heartbreaking".
"My thoughts and prayers are with your family and the ones who are hurting. May God bless us all and May we learn to not take a day for granted. Rest In Peace King!" she tweeted.
Keesha Sharp remembered Chadwick Boseman and wrote, "I am beyond heart broken to hear of Chadwicks passing.He was such a beautiful person inside and out. I just can’t believe it!My condolences to his family. I will miss u Black Panther. Rest In Peace.Hug those u love a little tighter, time is precious."
Jamie Grace wrote, "In telling the stories that shaped a culture, he became a legend."
Anika Noni Rose shared on Twitter, "RIP #ChadwickBoseman. You changed dreams. You broadened hearts and minds."
Kim Fields posted on Twitter, "Rest. Such gifts wrapped in dedication to our craft. May every man you portrayed celebrate your spirit as I do... as we all do. May your family be covered in your love."
Avengers actor Chris Evans expressed his sadness over the death of his co-star Chadwick Boseman. "I’m absolutely devastated. This is beyond heartbreaking," he wrote, adding, "Chadwick was special. A true original. He was a deeply committed and constantly curious artist. He had so much amazing work still left to create. I’m endlessly grateful for our friendship. Rest in power, King"
In a tweet, Viola Davis paid tribute to Chadwick Boseman. "Chadwick.....no words to express my devastation of losing you. Your talent, your spirit, your heart, your authenticity," she wrote.
The actor added, "It was an honor working beside you, getting to know you....Rest well prince...May flights of angels sing thee to thy heavenly rest. I love you!"
Sharing a picture of himself and Chadwick Boseman, Chris Hemsworth wrote, "Gonna miss you mate. Absolutely heartbreaking. One of the kindest most genuine people I’ve met. Sending love and support to all the family xo RIP @chadwickboseman"
The Academy paid tribute to Chadwick Boseman and his contribution to the world of cinema. "An immeasurable loss. From Black Panther to Da 5 Bloods, Chadwick Boseman brought strength and light to the screen, every time," The Academy tweeted.
Warner Bros studios paid their tribute to Chadwick Boseman. In a tweet, the studio mentioned, "Rest in peace, Chadwick Boseman. Thank you for the talent, inspiration, and passion you poured into this world. You will forever be remembered and in our hearts."
Oprah Winfrey tweeted, "What a gentle gifted SOUL. Showing us all that Greatness in between surgeries and chemo. The courage, the strength, the Power it takes to do that. This is what Dignity looks like."
Mahershala Ali remembered Chadwick Boseman in an Instagram post. He wrote, "Peace King... Thank you for your extraordinary work, your exemplary character and leadership. Love you Brother."
DJ Sharam expressed his sadness over the passing away of Chadwick Boseman. "This is so sad. Such a young bright talented star taken away from us too soon. RIP #chadwickboseman Life is fragile. Don't take it for granted," he tweeted.
Don Cheadle tweeted a picture and wrote, "I will miss you, birthday brother. you were always light and love to me. my god."
"The true power of @ChadwickBoseman was bigger than anything we saw on screen. From the Black Panther to Jackie Robinson, he inspired generations and showed them they can be anything they want — even super heroes. Jill and I are praying for his loved ones at this difficult time," wrote Joe Biden, 2020 candidate for President of the United States.
Taking to Twitter, Matt Lanter wrote, "Shocked to hear the sad news of Chadwick Boseman. Thinking of his family right now. #WakandaForever."
Bette Midler tweeted, "#chadwickboseman has died. What a shock; he was so young, but he made an indelible on all of us. My sympathies to his family, friends and fans, who loved him beyond measure. Rest In Peace."
Terry Crews wrote in a tweet that he is "stunned." "Honored to have worked with @chadwickboseman early on. Truly an amazing man. God bless his wife and family in this difficult time. Rest In Peace, brother," the actor-host tweeted.