The world lost an incredible actor on Friday (August 28) when Chadwick Boseman lost his four-year battle with colon cancer. The 43-year-old movie star was widely known for his role as King T’Challa in the 2018 Marvel blockbuster Black Panther but also starred in films such as 42 about Jackie Robinson and Get On Up about James Brown.
A statement was posted to his Twitter account on Friday night confirming the news.
“It is with immeasurable grief that we confirm the passing of Chadwick Boseman,” the statement read. 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 continued, “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 for your love and prayers, and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.”
pic.twitter.com/aZ2JzDf5ai
— Chadwick Boseman (@chadwickboseman) August 29, 2020
The news comes as a crushing blow to many who had no idea Boseman was suffering behind the scenes, especially since he was so active. The Anderson, South Carolina native most recently appeared in the Spike Lee Vietnam War drama Da 5 Bloods and is expected to appear opposite Viola Davis in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, a feature adaptation of the August Wilson play.
Social media is exploding with reactions to the shocking news. Ice Cube, Bun B, KXNG Crooked and MC Hammer are among the many, many celebrities and fans expressing their sorrow. Check out some of the reactions below.
View this post on InstagramThank You @chadwickboseman for inspiring us all and all you have done for the culture! Rest in Power to the legend @chadwickboseman ??? #wakandaforever
I’m floored by this news, Chadwick was one of the best and I really enjoyed watching him work. RIP https://t.co/N9HtKuuMIg
— Ice Cube (@icecube) August 29, 2020
View this post on InstagramBruh. Worst. Year. Ever. Condolences to his family and friends. Throw the whole damn year away.
Rest in power ?? https://t.co/FerPc1xFm7
— itsCROOK (@CrookedIntriago) August 29, 2020
? Salute ?? You Blessed us my Brother .. ?????? #RIPChad ✊??pic.twitter.com/UwTMTQUaVP
— MC HAMMER (@MCHammer) August 29, 2020
What the fuck is happening? My God.
— Issa Rae (@IssaRae) August 29, 2020
View this post on InstagramThis is gutting. So incredibly sad. #Repost @chadwickboseman @download.ins — 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. Photo Credit: @samjonespictures
This is a crushing blow.
— Jordan Peele (@JordanPeele) August 29, 2020
View this post on InstagramNo way
Numb
— Lil Bibby (@LilBibby_) August 29, 2020
CHADWICK BOSEMAN DIED!?!?!?!?
WHAT THE FUCK!?!? pic.twitter.com/QlinSLMDJs
— OG MACO (@OGMACO) August 29, 2020
In power
Eternally in power
— Barry Jenkins (@BarryJenkins) August 29, 2020
No fucking way pic.twitter.com/XQiquGnqeg
— Page Kennedy (@PageKennedy) August 29, 2020
View this post on InstagramMan. ??♂️Im speechless. Shot up like a star. A comet. gone way too soon. You will be missed brother. Rest easy? #chadwickboseman ??