Many of us will never forget our location, when we heard the sad news that Chadwick Boseman died on Friday, August 28th, 2020 after a private 4 year battle with colon cancer. Ironically, on the same date that the world celebrated Jackie Robinson Day (whom he played in the movie ’42’) and the 57th Anniversary of the MLK March on Washington, we lost our King.
According to Chadwick’s Twitter account:
“He died at home with his family and wife by his side. A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you so many of the films you have come to love so much.”
The South Carolina born actor, producer, and beloved hero Chadwick Boseman was just 43 years old at his passing. It was definitely shocking to discover he passed considering he just starred in Spike Lee’s movie, ‘Da 5 Bloods’, ‘Marshall’, the upcoming film by August Wilson’s ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ and many more. Equally, remarkable is the testimony Boseman had performed all these movies to perfection between countless surgeries and chemotherapy while keeping his BIG secret from the world.
After receiving the bad news, I recall trying to process his death and thinking to myself…GONE? Not King T’Challa! He always had a gregarious spirit, spoke so eloquently in his interviews and award shows and loved ALL people in his presence.
In the blink of an eye, the world took a big loss and we were forced to mourn our own superhero in real life. Reactions to his death came worldwide as the Internet took over. You could feel the sadness across the world.
Our beloved King Chadwick Boseman had showcased Black excellence on every accord while always wearing his signature smile whether in front of the camera acting or producing, working in the community visiting terminally ill children at the hospital, speaking at his alma mater Howard University’s graduation, or spending time with friends family, fans and the love with his wife Taylor Simone Leward.
Boseman clearly fulfilled his purpose on Earth in the 43 years he was here and wrote quite a story with his life. When you think about it he was a master and genius at telling our stories and that is what his legacy will be!
We will always remember our superhero who became a household name when Black Panther broke records and won numerous awards, our 42 Hall of Famer baseball professional Jackie Robinson, Black and Proud James Brown, our American Civil Rights activist and Associate Justice of Supreme court Thurgood Marshall, funnyman hosting SNL ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzMzFGgmQOc) and not to mention all the other great film performances.
Boseman always possessed a greatness in him and he was confident in who he was.
Chadwick Boseman summed up his life best in saying, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, ‘I used everything You gave me.”
KING Chadwick Boseman will live on in each of us Forever! #WakandaForever
Reactions to Chadwick Boseman’s Death
Ryan Cooler – Director of Black Panther:
“After his family released their statement, I realized that he was living with his illness the entire time I knew him. Because he was a caretaker, a leader, and a man of faith, dignity and pride, he shielded his collaborators from his suffering. He lived a beautiful life. And he made great art. Day after day, year after year. That was who he was. He was an epic firework display. I will tell stories about being there for some of the brilliant sparks till the end of my days. What an incredible mark he’s left for us.” Source.
President Barack Obama:
“Chadwick came to the White House to work with kids when he was playing Jackie Robinson. You could tell right away that he was blessed. To be young, gifted, and Black; to use that power to give them heroes to look up to; to do it all while in pain – what a use of his years.” Source.
Actor Denzel Washington:
“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,” Washington said in his statement. “God bless Chadwick Boseman.” Source.
Actor Michael B. Jordan:
“I’ve been trying to find the words, but nothing comes close to how I feel. I’ve been reflecting on every moment, every conversation, every laugh, every disagreement, every hug…everything.I wish we had more time.” Source.
Democratic Vice President Nominee Kamala Harris:
“Heartbroken. My friend and fellow Bison Chadwick Boseman was brilliant, kind, learned, and humble. He left too early but his life made a difference. Sending my sincere condolences to his family.” Source.
Howard University:
“It is with profound sadness that we mourn the loss of alumnus Chadwick Boseman who passed away this evening. His incredible talent will forever be immortalized through his characters and through his own personal journey from student to superhero! Rest in Power!” Source.
Marvel Studios and Co-Stars:
