The world was shocked to learn that actor Chadwick Boseman had died of cancer aged only 43. The actor was the star of such films such as 42, Get On Up, and most famously, Black Panther, where he played King T'Challa.
It was revealed that Boseman had been suffering from colon cancer for 4 years, a disease that is extremely rare in people so young.
His family said in a statement:
"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."
That same statement was released also on Boseman's twitter where it gained over 7 million 'likes' and 3 million retweets. Showing just how loved the actor was by audiences across the globe.
— Chadwick Boseman (@chadwickboseman) August 29, 2020
Boseman had not been public with his illness so the news that he had died with his family by his side came as an even bigger shock to fans.
Boseman gained plaudits for bringing a Black superhero to the big-screen, something that had not been seen frequently in the past.
Speaking out regarding being a black actor in Hollywood, he said while filming '42':
"You don't have the same exact experience as a Black actor as you do as a white actor. You don't have the same opportunities. That's evident and true. The best way to put it is: How often do you see a movie about a black hero who has a love story — with a black woman, or any woman for that matter ... he has a spirituality. He has an intellect. It's weird to say it, but it doesn't happen that often."
Ryan Coogler, director of Black Panther, paid an emotional tribute to Boseman saying:
"I noticed then that Chad was an anomaly. He was calm. Assured. Constantly studying. But also kind, comforting, had the warmest laugh in the world, and eyes that seen much beyond his years, but could still sparkle like a child seeing something for the first time."
He was one of many to state their sadness and shock at losing one of Hollywood's most promising faces.
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