Chadwick Boseman was an iconic actor who served as a vehicle for social change through the historic characters that he portrayed and his commendable work, all while battling stage three colon cancer. The resilience and strength that he showcased during the fight of his life is a testimony to the dedication that he had in highlighting black stories through cinematography.
Boseman courageously took on the difficult task of portraying major African American legacies through various starring roles in film. This included playing baseball player Jackie Robinson in 42, singer James Brown in Get on Up, and civil rights activist Thurgood Marshall in Marshall. He recently played King T'Challa/Black Panther in Marvel Studio's Black Panther. Through these roles, Boseman touched the lives of his co-stars, directors, and viewers at home. He was outspoken about the racial injustice that has contributed to a broken system in need of major reform. He cared so deeply about ensuring that every person felt represented and respected in this country.
In an Instagram post, Boseman shared:
"From this country's founding history; its economic base, its social standard, its penal system, its protection of property... White Supremacy and Racial Prejudice are its Pre-existing Conditions. Change is here. #BlackLivesMatter"
The news of Boseman's passing came with an outpour of love and admiration from celebrities, friends, and political figures, all who have been touched by his legacy.
Barack Obama
President Barack Obama speaks out about Boseman's courage and productive work in light of his battle with cancer.
Angela Bassett
Black Panther co-star Angela Bassett comments on Boseman's "beautiful spirit" and "impeccable talent."
Danai Gurira
Danai Gurira's heartfelt message honors Boseman's "pure hearted, profoundly generous, regal" energy and the role that he played in leading the charge for black representation.
Sterling K. Brown
I don’t have words. Rest In Peace, Bruh. Thank you for all you did while you were here. Thank you for being a frien… https://t.co/lCYC1RHcY5— Sterling K Brown (@Sterling K Brown) 1598668631
Marshall co-star Sterling K. Brown speaks out about the immense loss that he is facing and gratitude for Boseman's amazing work.
Chris Evans
I’m absolutely devastated. This is beyond heartbreaking. Chadwick was special. A true original. He was a deeply c… https://t.co/4dCDZwZprh— Chris Evans (@Chris Evans) 1598671863
Captain America star Chris Evans discusses the friendship that he had with Chadwick Boseman and the amazing artistry that Boseman gifted to the world.
Robert Downey, Jr.
Mr. Boseman leveled the playing field while fighting for his life... That’s heroism. I’ll remember the good times,… https://t.co/dhskXad2cE— Robert Downey Jr (@Robert Downey Jr) 1598724796
Avengersstar Robert Downey, Jr. states that Boseman "changed the game" through the work that he produced throughout his career.
Forest Whitaker
Your light brightened our days. It will continue to brighten our hearts and minds. Let the heavens be blessed as yo… https://t.co/X2wFkOCVEF— Forest Whitaker (@Forest Whitaker) 1598683555
Black Pantherco-star Forest Whitaker comments on Boseman's magical spirit that fills the hearts of everyone he touched.
Oprah Winfrey
What a gentle gifted SOUL. Showing us all that Greatness in between surgeries and chemo. The courage, the strength,… https://t.co/Qj4uUPhVtX— Oprah Winfrey (@Oprah Winfrey) 1598672062
Oprah Winfrey speaks out about Boseman's dignity during a difficult time that tests someone's true character.
Louis D'Esposito
We are crushed. Marvel has lost a true superhero and friend, but our hearts are heaviest for Chadwick’s family. Cha… https://t.co/fB48pwV7la— Louis D'Esposito (@Louis D'Esposito) 1598671699
Marvel co-president Louis D'Esposito appreciates Boseman's loyalty and kind-hearted nature.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Boseman's friends and family during this difficult time.
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