Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman has passed away at the age of 43 following a four-year battle with colon cancer.
A representive for Chadwick Boseman has revealed that the Black Panther star has died of color cancer. The actor was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016 before it eventually progressed to stage IV. The Associated Press broke the news and the report was then confirmed by the actor’s official Twitter page:
“It is with immeasurable grief that we confirm the passing of Chadwick Boseman.
Chadwick was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016, and battled with it these last 4 years as it progresses to stage IV.
“A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you many of the films you have come to love so much. 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. 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.”
Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige released this statement on Boseman’s death:
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.
Kevin Feige – President, Marvel Studios and Chief Creative Officer, Marvel
Chadwick Boseman began his acting career in television, landing his first role in 2003. Boseman’s big break came much later with his portrayal of baseball legend Jackie Robinson in the Brian Helgeland-directed biopic 42. He then gained further recognition for his work as James Brown in Tate Taylor’s Get on Up.
Following his roles in Jackie Robinson and James Brown, Chadwick Boseman was cast as T’Challa in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He made his debut as the iconic Marvel hero in 2016’s Captain America: Civil War before reprising the role in the standalone film Black Panther, directed by Ryan Coogler. Boseman’s Black Panther was then seen in Avengers: Infinity War and its follow-up Endgame.
Source: Twitter