Celebrities React To Chadwick Boseman's Death
Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman died at age 43 on Aug. 28, 2020, a statement shared to his Twitter account confirmed. Boseman, who played King T'Challa in the critically acclaimed film, had been diagnosed with colon cancer in 2016, although he never spoke publicly about his diagnosis. "A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all and brought you many of the films you have come to love so much," the statement read. "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."' Boseman died with his family and wife by his side, the statement noted.
The South Carolina native led an extraordinary career in Hollywood before his passing, and one of his most notable roles was playing the baseball legend Jackie Robinson in the biopic, 42. He also starred in Marshall, Avengers, and Captain America. At the time of his death, he was reportedly working on the upcoming animated series, What If...?, and was expected to reprise his role as King T'Challa in Black Panther II.
Of course, many fans and fellow celebrities have expressed sorrow over Boseman's death, taking to social media to express their grief. Here are some of the reactions.
Chadwick Boseman's death devastates Hollywood
As soon as the news about Chadwick Boseman's death was confirmed, fellow entertainers took to Twitter to share tributes to the accomplished actor. "A warrior of light til the very end," Scandal alum Kerry Washington penned. "A true king. I am without words. May he rise in power." Ryan Reynolds said, "What a brutal loss," and comedian Wanda Sykes wrote, "I am broken. Praying for his family." Avengers star Chris Pratt stated on Instagram, "This is such devastating news. We're praying for his family. The world has lost an immeasurable talent and a great person. " This Is Us star Sterling K. Brown said, "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."
Others honored Boseman's legacy in the film industry as well as his activism, like singer-songwriter John Legend, who tweeted, "He brought grace, elegance and power to everything he did. He always seemed to carry our ancestors with him. And now he joins them far too soon." Real Housewives of Potomac star, Monique Samuels, shared photos of her son's Black Panther-inspired birthday party, writing, "Like wow I'm in tears and they won't stop. Just thinking about what his role did for black kids across the globe."
It's clear Boseman's life and career left a mark on many, and it's without a doubt that countless other celebrities will honor his legacy in the coming days.
Chadwick Boseman's 'Avengers' castmates honored his heroic legacy
A hero both on-screen and behind-the-scenes, Chadwick Boseman will forever be remembered as King T'Challa in Marvel's Black Panther. Upon hearing news of their castmate's unexpected death, Boseman's fellow Avengers took to Twitter to honor his legacy. "Chadwick was special," Captain America's Chris Evans tweeted. "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."
"All I have to say is the tragedies amassing this year have only been made more profound by the loss of [Chadwick Boseman]," Mark Ruffalo, who plays the Marvel Cinematic Universe's Bruce Banner, tweeted. "What a man, and what an immense talent," he added. "Brother, you were one of the all time greats and your greatness was only beginning. Lord love ya. Rest in power, King."
Brie Larson, who plays Captain Marvel, also tweeted: "Chadwick was someone who radiated power and peace. Who stood for so much more than himself. Who took the time to really see how you were doing and gave words of encouragement when you felt unsure," she wrote. "I'm honored to have the memories I have. The conversations, the laughter. My heart is with you and your family." As Larson added, it's clear that Boseman "will be missed and never forgotten" among those with whom he worked so closely in recent years.
Political figures remembered Chadwick Boseman's activism
Before he passed, Chadwick Boseman's final social media post highlighted his excitement over Senator Kamala Harris's historic run for vice president. "YES," Boseman tweeted alongside the #WhenWeAll Vote and #Vote2020 hashtags. As an activist himself, it's no wonder Boseman's death also devastated those who echo his calls for social justice. "Heartbroken," Harris posted on Instagram. "My friend and fellow [Howard University] 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."
Former Vice President Joe Biden tweeted: "The true power of [Chadwick Boseman] was bigger than anything we saw on screen." The 2020 Democratic nominee for president added, "From the Black Panther to Jackie Robinson, he inspired generations and showed them they can be anything they want — even super heroes. Jill and I are praying for his loved ones at this difficult time."
Activist Bernice King, daughter of Martin Luther King, Jr., also celebrated the impact Boseman's legacy will have on the Black community for generations to come. "We never know what people are enduring. Humans...we are wonders," she tweeted. :Thank you, Chadwick, for gifting us with your greatness in the midst of a painful struggle." Her brother, Martin Luther King III, added that, despite his four-year battle with colon cancer, Boseman "kept fighting and he kept inspiring. He will be missed." He certainly will be.