- Share this article on Facebook
- Share this article on Twitter
- Share this article on Flipboard
- Share this article on Email
- Show additional share options
- Share this article on Linkedin
- Share this article on Pinit
- Share this article on Reddit
- Share this article on Tumblr
- Share this article on Whatsapp
- Share this article on Print
- Share this article on Comment
In the wake of Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman‘s death from colon cancer on Friday, Hollywood figures took to social media to pay tribute to the actor, who died at age 43 after a four year struggle with the disease.
According to an official statement from the actor’s representatives, Chadwick was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016. The actor died at his home in Los Angeles, surrounded by his wife and other family members.
“This is a crushing blow,” tweeted director Jordan Peele.
“Chadwick’s passing is absolutely devastating. He was our T’Challa, our Black Panther, and our dear friend,” said Marvel president Kevin Feige. “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 such an elegant man with great integrity and tremendous talent,” wrote Anthony and Joseph Russo via their shared Twitter account. “He inspired an entire generation to stand up and be king. Honor him by emulating him-show kindness and love to others. Share your talents in ways that impact. Always strive to be a light in the darkness.”
On Monday, Black Panther co-star Michael B. Jordan posted to Instagram, “One of the last times we spoke, you said we were forever linked , and now the truth of that means more to me than ever.” He added, “I wish we had more time.”
Black Panther actress Letitia Wright penned a video eulogy to Boseman on Instagram, speaking over images of the sun, “It is written. There is nothing new under the sun. But the sun stood still that morning, refusing to shine. Dark clouds surrounding, confusion setting in. Tears flowing, rivers so deep. I didn’t know this is what I was waking up to: my brother, an angel on earth, departed. A soul so beautiful, when you walked into the room, there was calm. You always moved with grace and ease. Every time I saw you, the world would be a better place.” The poem was spoken over calming imagery such as plants, the sky, flowers and water. Listen to the whole message here.
Boseman’s fellow Black Panther co-star Lupita Nyong’o posted a lengthy statement to Instagram 10 days after his death, beginning by saying that she was “struggling to think and speak about my friend, Chadwick Boseman, in the past tense. It doesn’t make sense. The news of his passing is a punch to my gut every morning. I am aware that we are all mortal, but you come across some people in life that possess an immortal energy, that seem like they have existed before, that are exactly where they are supposed to always be – here! … that seem ageless … Chadwick was one of those people.”
She continued, writing in part, “Chadwick was a man who made the most of his time, and somehow also managed to take his time. I didn’t know him for long but he had a profound effect on me in the time that I did. When we came together to make Black Panther, I remember being struck by his quiet, powerful presence. He had no airs about him, but there was a higher frequency that he seemed to operate from. You got the sense that he was fully present and also somehow fully aware of things in the distant future. As a result, I noticed that Chadwick never seemed rushed! He commanded his time with ease…and he put in the work with all of us.”
Sidney Poitier and family released a statement on Boseman’s death, saying, “How fortunate were we all to be blessed with the soul and works of this extraordinary human being, Chadwick Boseman. In his short life and brilliant career, he has left us with impactful reminders of who we are innately as a people — courageous, empathetic, steadfast, honorable, smart, strong, in body and in mind — trailblazers… in the worst of times and in the best of times. Thank you, Chadwick, for, yet again, reminding the world how a life filled with humanity and purpose truly elevates us all. Rest well.”
George C. Wolfe, who directed Boseman in the upcoming drama Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, wrote in a statement to THR, “Working with Chadwick on Ma Rainey was a glorious experience. Everyday we all got to witness the ferocity of his talent and the gentleness of his heart. A truly blessed, loving, gifted and giving human being.”
Viola Davis, who was set to star with Boseman in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, wrote of the actor’s shocking death: “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.”
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences wrote on Twitter, “An immeasurable loss. From “Black Panther” to “Da 5 Bloods,” Chadwick Boseman brought strength and light to the screen, every time.”
“Chadwick, you were even more of a hero off screen than on,” wrote Tom Holland on Instagram. “A role model not only to me on set, but to millions of others around the world. You brought joy and happiness to so many and I’m proud to have been able to call you a friend. RIP Chadwick.”
Robert Downey Jr. shared, “Mr. Boseman leveled the playing field while fighting for his life… That’s heroism. I’ll remember the good times, the laughter, and the way he changed the game… “
“Chadwick was a superhero on screen and in life, and it’s impossible to imagine working at the level he has while valiantly battling his illness,” wrote Ted Sarandos, Netflix co-CEO, in a statement obtained by THR. “His legacy as a person and an artist will inspire millions. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family during this difficult time.”
“Hard to hear about this,” wrote Dwayne Johnson on Twitter. “Rest in love, brother. Thank you for shining your light and sharing your talent with the world. My love and strength to your family.”
“Yes this was our king,” wrote Trevor Noah on Instagram. “Not because we served him or because he ruled. But because of how he served us in everything he did. He played a hero on screen and lived like one in real life. From South Carolina to South Africa he made so many of us proud of who we are and for that he will always be our king. Hamba kahle Chadwick…Sizoku bona phambili.”
“Chadwick came to the White House to work with kids when he was playing Jackie Robinson,” wrote Barack Obama on Twitter. “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.”
“He was so charming and funny and easy to work with and he was such a talented actor,” wrote Mick Jagger in a statement to THR. “He made the making of Get On Up such a wonderful experience for me. I am so sad to hear of his death and at such a young age. He will be truly missed by so many people. mj.”
Issa Rae posted a lengthy message on Instagram, writing that she fell asleep and woke up crying. “I don’t know why this one hurts so badly,” wrote the actress. “Maybe it’s because we lost a literal Black superhero. Maybe it’s because your grace, class, kindness and dignity is so rare. Maybe it’s because you had to suffer in silence for so long, while some speculated, cruelly. Maybe it’s because we didn’t need to see another Black man’s life cut short… ”
“You loved us,” wrote Ava DuVernay on Instagram. “And we will always love you.”
Kamala Harris tweeted, “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.”
Disney chairman Bob Iger said in a statement, “We are all heartbroken by the tragic loss of Chadwick Boseman — an extraordinary talent, and one of the most gentle and giving souls I have ever met. He brought enormous strength, dignity and depth to his groundbreaking role of Black Panther; shattering myths and stereotypes, becoming a long-awaited hero to millions around the world, and inspiring us all to dream bigger and demand more than the status quo. We mourn all that he was, as well as everything he was destined to become. For his friends and millions of fans, his absence from the screen is only eclipsed by his absence from our lives. All of us at Disney send our prayers and heartfelt condolences to his family.”
Thomas Tull, producer of 42, shared a statement on Boseman’s passing. “Chadwick was a force of nature full of abundant talent and strong spirit. Tonight all baseball teams are wearing 42 to honor Jackie Robinson, and today marks the anniversary of Dr. King’s iconic I Have a Dream speech. Chad was special, he played Jackie Robinson with respect and reverence for the legacy of a man who changed the world. Chad was kind and genuine, I will miss him dearly and I will never forget him. My heart goes out to his wife and family.”
Denzel Washington said in a statement to THR, “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.”
“I woke up to this tragic news,” tweeted Ron Howard on Saturday. “I knew the wildly impressive @chadwickboseman through @RealImagine #GetOnUp where he was brilliant. His recent work despite being ill is stunning. Condolences to loved ones. I’m so sorry for your & our loss.”
“Here’s to an incredible man with immeasurable talent, who leaned into life regardless of his personal battles,” wrote Halle Berry. “You never truly know what the people around you might be going through – treat them with kindness and cherish every minute you have together. RIP.”
“It was the highest honor getting to work with you and getting to know you,” wrote Mark Ruffalo. “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.”
“This is such devastating news,” wrote Chris Pratt. “We’re praying for his family. The world has lost an immeasurable talent and a great person.”
Stevie Wonder wrote in a statement, “A great human being, who while silently suffering with terminal cancer, still
used his talent to be a vessel, which he would with that God given gift, inspire, encourage and motivate a people and the entire world to be better
someones, a better place for everyone, to get us all to a higher ground. Please let us love on his Dear Wife and Family. Wakanda Forever!!!”
Boseman’s Da 5 Bloods co-star Delroy Lindo added in a Facebook video on Monday, “Though it maybe doesn’t get a lot of attention, Chadwick was what’s known in the Business as a ‘Triple Threat’—witness his talent, Singing and Dancing in Get On Up for example; in addition to the Self Evident acting Talent displayed in any number of his other films.” He added, “Rest in Power and Peace, BrotherMan.”
Read on for these tributes and more.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CEkpoYcgi43/?igshid=uw25rumrurhw
This is a crushing blow.
— Jordan Peele (@JordanPeele) August 29, 2020
An immeasurable loss. From "Black Panther" to "Da 5 Bloods," Chadwick Boseman brought strength and light to the screen, every time. pic.twitter.com/vRXxYU8Tbr
— The Academy (@TheAcademy) August 29, 2020
Chadwick was such an elegant man with great integrity and tremendous talent. He inspired an entire generation to stand up and be king. Honor him by emulating him-show kindness and love to others. Share your talents in ways that impact. Always strive to be a light in the darkness. pic.twitter.com/8XRpRejnf7
— Russo Brothers (@Russo_Brothers) August 29, 2020
Our hearts are broken and our thoughts are with Chadwick Boseman’s family. Your legacy will live on forever. Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/YQMrEJy90x
— Marvel Entertainment (@Marvel) August 29, 2020
Devastating news. We lost a great one. Takoto mai rā e Āriki. #chadwickboseman
— Taika Waititi (@TaikaWaititi) August 29, 2020
Mr. Boseman leveled the playing field while fighting for his life… That’s heroism. I’ll remember the good times, the laughter, and the way he changed the game… #chadwickforever @chadwickboseman pic.twitter.com/IFfCSmLrhR
— Robert Downey Jr (@RobertDowneyJr) August 29, 2020
My prayers go out to Chadwick’s family and loved ones. The world will miss his tremendous talent. God rest his soul. #wakandaforever https://t.co/j5JWSeiqd5
— chris pratt (@prattprattpratt) August 29, 2020
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💙 pic.twitter.com/oBERXlw66Z
— Chris Evans (@ChrisEvans) August 29, 2020
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. pic.twitter.com/C5xGkUi9oZ
— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) August 29, 2020
I’m so so sorry to read this awful news. Chadwick’s King will reign forever in the hearts of everyone who experienced one of the most important American films ever made. On behalf of my family, we send deep sympathy and love to his family and loved ones. #WakandaForever https://t.co/1bcrUNy90I
— Sean Astin (@SeanAstin) August 29, 2020
Thank you for being a real one fam… Truly hate we didn’t find that project for us to do together RIP Chadwick!!!! Will miss those hilarious real convos we would have anytime we saw each other!!! Praying for the fam!!!!
— Lil Rel Howery (@LilRel4) August 29, 2020
RIP Chadwick, thank you for all you gave us… You were always so solid and showed so much love each time we crossed paths. Damn 💔💔💔
— G-Eazy (@G_Eazy) August 29, 2020
Rest In Peace, Chadwick. Gone way too soon. Talent beyond. pic.twitter.com/bsEYLts5Q4
— Alyssa Milano (@Alyssa_Milano) August 29, 2020
2020 really ain’t shit. Chadwick Boseman, may you eternally rest in power
— Jemele Hill (@jemelehill) August 29, 2020
Chadwick was really out here shooting all of these huge action movies while fighting stage 4 colon cancer. Man. Strong isn’t even the word.
— Matthew A. Cherry (@MatthewACherry) August 29, 2020
In power
Eternally in power
— Barry Jenkins (@BarryJenkins) August 29, 2020
I met Chadwick the day Stan put his hand and footprints into the Chinese Theater Forecourt. He was nice and a little nervous, but very regal – like T’challa. And so talented. This is heartbreaking. 43 is too to die. My heart goes out to his family and fellow fans tonight. https://t.co/cdsjU2oB3B
— KevinSmith (@ThatKevinSmith) August 29, 2020
This is such a premature and terrible loss. What a brilliant, beautiful, artistic mind departed us today. So much beauty in such a short period of time. Thank you Chadwick. 👊🏾✊🏾#wakandaforever #RIPchadwickboseman https://t.co/fOhQiqOxiU
— Aisha Tyler (@aishatyler) August 29, 2020
Condolences to the Boseman family. Your loss is also our loss. Chadwick’s talent and presence has effected us all. His STAR will continue to shine. We mourn with you. May he Rest In Peace. #BePeace
— Carl Weathers (@TheCarlWeathers) August 29, 2020
Chadwick Boseman; it is unimaginable to me as a mom, that you are gone. Our family sends our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to yours. Godspeed 🤍🌿💥
— Sharon Stone (@sharonstone) August 29, 2020
Our hearts are broken and our thoughts are with Chadwick Boseman's family. Your legacy will live on forever. Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/QNvzuZgAbe
— Black Panther (@theblackpanther) August 29, 2020
Here’s to an incredible man with immeasurable talent, who leaned into life regardless of his personal battles. You never truly know what the people around you might be going through – treat them with kindness and cherish every minute you have together. RIP #ChadwickBoseman pic.twitter.com/NaNC5GKuut
— Halle Berry (@halleberry) August 29, 2020
It was the highest honor 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.
— Mark Ruffalo (@MarkRuffalo) August 29, 2020
Chadwick Boseman was supposed to be a movie star we grew old watching. What a horrible loss
— Ike Barinholtz (@ikebarinholtz) August 29, 2020
Chadwick Boseman, I pray you are at peace. I’m heartbroken you’re gone but I’m grateful you got the fuck out of here. I know you are in a better place – a place of power. ✊🏽You are now among our ancestors. Thank you for your essence. Thank you for your presence. #ChadwickBoseman pic.twitter.com/zlbtnwxfBU
— Kendrick Sampson (@kendrick38) August 29, 2020
I am beyond shocked to hear of the passing of Chadwick Boseman. He had an amazing energy that you could feel when you were with him. Much love and prayers to his family. May he Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/UHxOQojcOP
— Martin Lawrence (@realmartymar) August 29, 2020
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 super heroes. Jill and I are praying for his loved ones at this difficult time.
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) August 29, 2020
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. https://t.co/hNAWav7Cq8— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) August 29, 2020
I woke up to this tragic news. I knew the wildly impressive @chadwickboseman through @RealImagine #GetOnUp where he was brilliant. His recent work despite being ill is stunning. Condolences to loved ones. I’m so sorry for your & our loss. https://t.co/C3u3d6PLIV
— Ron Howard (@RealRonHoward) August 29, 2020
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. https://t.co/KazXV1e7l7
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) August 29, 2020
Chadwick Boseman told the story of trailblazers and became one along the way.
His time here has ended far too soon, but his work and his art will live on forever. pic.twitter.com/lsk1dGquC8
— Cory Booker (@CoryBooker) August 29, 2020
Jackie Robinson, James Brown, Thurgood Marshall, The Black Panther, Chadwick Boseman. Our real life super heroes.
— Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) August 29, 2020
Only Chadwick could embody Jackie Robinson, Thurgood Marshall, and T’Challa. He, too, knew what it meant to persevere. To summon real strength. And he belongs right there with them as a hero—for Black kids and for all our kids. There’s no better gift to give our world. ❤ pic.twitter.com/t2tjZDMxNT
— Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) August 29, 2020
Colon cancer has taken too many young Black men too soon. I’m heartbroken for Chadwick Boseman’s family and friends, and for everyone who saw themselves in his roles. He was a hero on screen and off. Sending comfort to everyone grieving.
— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) August 29, 2020
https://www.instagram.com/p/CEfAhkFMvSw/?igshid=1elguvo34mofm
https://www.instagram.com/p/CEnRJPMBPT6/
THR Newsletters
Sign up for THR news straight to your inbox every day