Actor Chadwick Boseman, star of Marvel’s Black Panther, has died at the age of 43. The shocking announcement was posted to the actor’s official Twitter account last night – apparently, he’d been battling colon cancer for the last four years. Although Boseman had shared videos of himself looking gaunt before his death, this news has blindsided fans, who had assumed that his physical changes were related to a role.
What’s equally crazy is that Boseman’s death falls on the anniversary of Jack Kirby’s, who died on August 28, 1917. Kirby is the artist who co-created the Black Panther character. Additionally, Friday was Jackie Robinson day. Boseman played the legendary baseball player in 2013’s 42.
— Chadwick Boseman (@chadwickboseman) August 29, 2020
“It is with immeasurable grief that we confirm the passing of Chadwick Boseman,” the post reads. “Chadwick was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016, and battled with it these last 4 years as it progressed 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.”