Hollywood has paid tribute to actor Chadwick Boseman, following his death at the age of 43.
The actor known for his role as King T’Challa on the Black Panther movie passed away on Friday (28.08.20) after a secret, four-year battle with colon cancer.
Hollywood and fans from around the world rushed to pay tribute to the late star on social media. Many have commended his bravery for working tirelessly and showing up despite battling cancer for the last couple of years.
Angela Bassett has paid tribute to her onscreen son. The 62-year-old actress played Queen Ramonda, the mother of Chadwick’s character T’Challa in Marvel’s ‘Black Panther’ and she shared a sweet story about how they met years ago when Angela was being feted at Howard University, Chadwick’s alma mater.
Marvel president Kevin Feige said: “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.”
Marvel added: “Our hearts are broken and our thoughts are with Chadwick Boseman’s family. Your legacy will live on forever. Rest In Peace.”
Disney’s Bob Iger tweeted: “We are all heartbroken by the tragic loss of #chadwickboseman — an extraordinary talent, and one of the most gentle and giving souls I have ever met. 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.”
Denzel Washington told The Hollywood Reporter: “He was a gentle soul and a brilliant artist,who will stay with us for eternity through his iconic performances over his short yet illustrious career. God bless Chadwick Boseman.”
Halle Berry wrote on social media: “”Here’s to an incredible man with immeasurable talent, who leaned into life regardless of his personal battles. You never truly know what the people around you might be going through – treat them with kindness and cherish every minute you have together. RIP.”
Director Taika Waititi tweeted: “Devastating news. We lost a great one. Takoto mai rā e Āriki. #chadwickboseman,” Jordan Peele added “This is a crushing blow,” and Kevin Smith wrote “I met Chadwick the day Stan put his hand and footprints into the Chinese Theater Forecourt. He was nice and a little nervous, but very regal – like T’challa. And so talented. This is heartbreaking. 43 is too young to die. My heart goes out to his family and fellow fans tonight.”
And Chadwick’s fellow Marvel stars also paid tribute, with Brie Larson writing: “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.”
Mark Ruffalo 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.”
Chris Evans said: “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.”
Chris Pratt added: “This is such devastating news. We’re praying for his family. The world has lost an immeasurable talent and a great person.”
Jamie Foxx wrote on Instagram: “Please Jesus please… I know you know what’s best… but at this moment our hearts are writhing with so much pain… so to lose this beautiful black king renders me weak…please watch over his family and loved ones…. @chadwickboseman you have touched the lives of all of us… u will forever be remembered in the highest regard… REST IN POWER! our black king! Our black panther!”
John Legend added: “I’m so shocked and heartbroken about Chadwick. He was such a bright light, such a gifted performer. He brought grace, elegance and power to everything he did. He always seemed to carry our ancestors with him. And now he joins them far too soon.”
Oprah Winfrey paid tribute by writing: “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.”
Viola Davis said: “Chadwick…..no words to express my devastation of losing you. Your talent, your spirit, your heart, your authenticity……..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!”
Others who have sent their condolences include basketball star Lebron James, rapper Ludacris, singer Jennifer Hudson, hitmaker Pharell Williams, rapper Meek Mill, actress Whoopi Goldberg, actress Kerry Washington, actor Jared Leto, comedian Kevin Hart, rapper Drake, singer Ciara and reality star Kim Kardashian.
Chadwick is survived by his wife Taylor Simone Ledward and his mother Carolyn Boseman.
READ: Wakanda Forever! Black Panther Star Chadwick Boseman Is Dead
