Shock, grief and gratitude after death of Chadwick Boseman
Actors Michael B. Jordan, Leitia Wright, Chadwick Boseman, Lupita Nyong’o, Daniel Kaluuya and Danai Gurira pose at the premiere of “Black Panther” in London. Image: AP/Joel C Ryan/Invision
The announcement of Chadwick Boseman’s passing earlier today has left his dearest friends and colleagues from the industry devastated and heartbroken.
The “Black Panther” star died at the age of 43 after silently battling colon cancer for four years. In memory of Boseman, numerous Hollywood actors, directors and more penned touching tributes via social media to express their love and gratitude for Boseman one last time.
“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.” — Denzel Washington, via a statement.
“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!” — Viola Davis, via Instagram.
“During the premiere party for Black Panther, Chadwick reminded me of something. He whispered that when I received my honorary degree from Howard University, his alma mater, he was the student assigned to escort me that day. And here we were, years later as friends and colleagues, enjoying the most glorious night ever! We’d spent weeks prepping, working, sitting next to each other every morning in makeup chairs, preparing for the day together as mother and son. I am honored that we enjoyed that full circle experience. This young man’s dedication was awe-inspiring, his smile contagious, his talent unreal. So I pay tribute to a beautiful spirit, a consummate artist, a soulful brother…’thou aren’t not dead but flown afar…’. All you possessed, Chadwick, you freely gave. Rest now, sweet prince.” — Angela Bassett, who portrayed Ramonda, King T’Challa’s stepmother in Black Panther, via Instagram.
“I don’t have words. Rest In Peace, Bruh. Thank you for all you did while you were here. Thank you for being a friend. You are loved. You will be missed.” — Boseman’s “Black Panther” co-star Sterling K. Brown.
“I’m absolutely devastated. This is beyond heartbreaking. 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.” — Chris Evans, who played Captain America in multiple Marvel films, via Twitter.
“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.” — Mark Ruffalo, Boseman’s co-star in “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Avengers: Endgame”, via Twitter.
“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.” — Samuel L. Jackson, who portrayed Nick Fury in “Avengers: Endgame”, via Twitter.
“This is a crushing blow.” — Director and actor Jordan Peele on Twitter.
“Our hearts are broken and our thoughts are with Chadwick Boseman’s family. Your legacy will live on forever.” — Marvel Studios, via Instagram.
“Heartbroken. My friend and fellow Bison Chadwick Boseman was brilliant, kind, learned, and humble. He left too early but his life made a difference.” — Kamala Harris, on Twitter. Harris and Boseman were both graduates of Howard University, and his final tweet celebrated her selection as Joe Biden’s running mate.
“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 [superheroes.]” — Joe Biden, via Twitter.
“We are devastated by the tragic loss of Chadwick Boseman. His transcendent performance in ’42′ will stand the test of time and serve as a powerful vehicle to tell Jackie’s story to audiences for generations to come.” — Major League Baseball, via Twitter.
“This broke me.” — Actor and writer Issa Rae on Twitter.
“A warrior of light til the very end. A true king. I am without words. May he rise in power.” — Actor Kerry Washington, on Twitter.
“I met you at the [premiere] of 42 in Pittsburgh in 2013. Even though you were in the spotlight and all eyes were on you, I remember you saying, ‘I’m that one that’s starstruck by all of these athletes here.’ That’s the man you were. Humble. You will be missed.” — Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Andrew McCutchen, a former National League Most Valuable Player when he played for Pittsburgh, on Twitter.
“Just when you thought 2020 couldn’t get any worse… A deeply gifted man is gone too soon. His memory will blaze on fiercely… from here to eternity.” — Mark Hamill, on Twitter.
“Hard to hear about this. Rest in love, brother. Thank you for shining your light and sharing your talent with the world. My love and strength to your family.” — Dwayne Johnson, via Twitter.
“In power. Eternally in power.” — “Moonlight” director Barry Jenkins, via Twitter.
“We love you, Chadwick. Your legacy will never die.” — Lena Waithe, on Twitter.
“An immeasurable loss. From “Black Panther” to “Da 5 Bloods,” Chadwick Boseman brought strength and light to the screen, every time.” — The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, via Twitter.
“[I] will miss you, birthday brother. you were always light and love to me. my god.” — Don Cheadle, via Twitter.
“So 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.” — Terry Crews, via Twitter.
“We’ve lost a great one. My heart is truly broken.” — Octavia Spencer on Instagram. CL
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