Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman has died at the age of 43 after a four-year battle with cancer, it was announced today
A heartbreaking post was shared onto the star’s Instagram account announcing the actor’s death after being diagnosed with stage four colon cancer.
It read: “It is with immeasurable grief that we confirm the passing of Chadwick Boseman.”
Chadwick was diagnosed with stage three colon cancer in 2016 and had battled with it since, revealed the heartbreaking post.
The cancer had progressed to stage four at the time of his death.
“He died in his home with his wife and family by his side,” the post read.
The announcement continued with a heartfelt tribute: “A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you many of the films you have come to love so much.
Chadwick Boseman battled with colon cancer since 2016 (Image: chadwickboseman/Instagram)
“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 honour of his career to bring King T’Challa to life in Black Panther.”
Chadwick rocketed to fame as the lead star in Marvel’s 2018 mega-hit Black Panther.
The film, directed by Ryan Coogler, won huge plaudits and took home over one billion dollars at the box office and was seen as a landmark moment for black representation in Hollywood.
It became the first superhero movie to be nominated for an Oscar and, although it did not win, changed how many people perceived such films.
A sequel, Black Panther 2, had been set for release in 2022, but it is unclear what will now happen with the film.
Devastated Marvel stars shared their grief online, paying a series of heartbreaking tributes to the actor
Chris Evans, who played Captain America alongside Chadwick, and said: “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 Hemsworth, who plays Thor, said: “Gonna miss you mate. Absolutely heartbreaking. One of the kindest most genuine people I’ve met. Sending love and support to all the family xo RIP”
The star was known for his role as Black Panther (Image: Publicity Picture)
Chris Pratt, who starred in Guardians of the Galaxy, star, said: “My prayers go out to Chadwick’s family and loved ones. The world will miss his tremendous talent. God rest his soul.”
Mark Ruffalo, who plays Hulk in the Marvel Universe, said: “It was the highest honour getting to work with you and getting to know you. What a generous and sincere human being.
“You believed in the sacred nature of the work and gave your all. Much love to your family. And much love from all of us left here.”
Headded: “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.”
The announcement of his death was shared on his Twitter (Image: chadwickboseman/Twitter)
Don Cheadle, who starred alongside Chadwick as James Rhodes, posted a picture of the two together and said: “I will miss you, birthday brother. you were always light and love to me. my god … forever and ever …”
Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios, cast Boseman as Black Panther and in a statement 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.”
Chadwick was just 43-years-old (Image: Getty Images for Disney)
In its own statement, Marvel said Boseman’s “legacy will live on forever”.
The official Twitter for the Black Panther film led with: “Our hearts are broken and our thoughts are with Chadwick Boseman’s family. Your legacy will live on forever. Rest In Peace.”
Despite being diagnosed with colon cancer in 2016. the same year he started portraying the Marvel Comics character T’Challa in Captain America: Civil War.
He went on to play the role in Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame.
Chadwick died on August 28, in his home.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
