Inside Chadwick Boseman's Wife Moving Speech About The Late Actor
In over a decade of his acting career, Chadwick Boseman played a number of memorable roles. Aside from his roles in All My Children, Lincoln Heights, and his well-known role as King T'Challa in Black Panther, the late actor landed several high-profile roles, including the lead of Jackie Robinson in the 2014 film 42 and James Brown in Get On Up. Boseman became a staple to Black culture in Hollywood, bringing depth and passion to each of the roles he played.
On Aug. 28, 2020, the world mourned after the unexpected announcement of Boseman's passing at the age of 43. "It is with immeasurable grief that we confirm the passing of Chadwick Boseman... It was the honor of his career to bring King T'Challa to life in Black Panther," his family shared in a statement. "He died in his home, with his wife and family by his side. The family thanks you for your love and prayers, and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time."
With Boseman's life cut short from a private battle with stage IV colon cancer, the Howard University graduate did not get the chance to enjoy the fruits of the labor from his award-winning final role as Levee in August Wilson's Ma Rainey's Black Bottom. However, Boseman's wife Taylor Simone Ledward praised her late husband's career in her first public remarks since his passing. Read on to find out why Ledward's speech is tugging at our heartstrings.
Chadwick Boseman's wife Taylor Simone Ledward 'so proud' of him
Chadwick Boseman received his flowers at the 30th Independent Filmmaker Project Gotham Awards in January 2021, and fans can't stop talking about it! Although Boseman did not win his nomination for Best Actor, he was posthumously honored with the Actor Tribute alongside his Ma Rainey's Black Bottom co-star Viola Davis, who received the Actress Tribute. Boseman's wife Taylor Simone Ledward accepted the award on his behalf, praising her husband for remaining true to himself in every aspect of his life.
"As an artist, an actor, and a person, Chad made a practice of telling the truth," Ledward said (via CNN). "He is the most honest person I've ever met, because he didn't just stop at speaking the truth, he actively searched for it; in himself, in those around him and in the moment. The truth can be a very easy thing for the self to avoid, but if one does not live in truth, then it's impossible to live in line with a divine purpose for your life. And so, it became how he lived his life, day in, day out. Imperfect, but determined."
Ledward also acknowledged Boseman's ability to operate as a 'vessel' throughout his acting career, allowing himself to be a voice for others. Finally, Ledward thanked God for "giving Chad these gifts, and instilling the strength to bear its weight." She added, "Chad, thank you. I love you. I am so proud of you. Keep shining your light on us." We're not crying, you are.