Last night came the news that “Black Panther” star Chadwick Boseman had passed away tragically at the age of 43 following a four year battle with colon cancer – a fight he never spoke about publicly.
Boseman’s friends, fans and contemporaries in Hollywood have since reacted to the news of a talented actor who was taken far too young. Here’s a sampling of quotes released across social media
Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige: “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…The Marvel Studios family deeply mourns his loss, and we are grieving tonight with his family.”
Former U.S. 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.”
Current U.S. Democratic V.P. 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.”
Oprah Winfrey: “What a gentle gifted SOUL. Showing us all that Greatness in between surgeries and chemo. The courage, the strength, the Power it takes to do that. This is what Dignity looks like.”
Chris Evans: “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.”
Chris Hemsworth: “Gonna miss you mate. Absolutely heartbreaking. One of the kindest most genuine people I’ve met. Sending love and support to all the family xo RIP.”
Mark Ruffalo: “All I have to say is the tragedies amassing this year have only been made more profound by the loss of #ChadwickBoseman. What a man, and what an immense talent. Brother, you were one of the all time greats and your greatness was only beginning. Lord love ya. Rest in power, King.”
Cicely Tyson: “God of our silent tears! A brillant & talented actor, gone to soon. @chadwickboseman you leave this earth w/a beautiful body of work. When you graced our screens you brought the dignity & grace we could all be proud of. My prayers are with your loving family. RIP my dear son CTD.”
Ava DuVernay: “May you have a beautiful return, King. We will miss you so.”
Sterling K. Brown: “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.”
Jeffrey Wright: “This brother right here. Wow. No words. This life.”
In light of events, Netflix has decided to delay a virtual preview of its drama film “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” which stars Boseman in his last on-screen role.
The Q&A was to celebrate the film and the life and work of August Wilson, the writer of the play on which the film is based. Boseman wasn’t originally scheduled to appear at the event but the streaming service has decided to postpone it anyway.
Source: Deadline
