It feels like just yesterday that the world was shaken by the untimely death of one of America’s most beloved actors, Chadwick Boseman.
The well esteemed actor, best known for his role as King T’Challa in Marvel’s ‘Black Panther’, passed away on August 28, 2020, after a private four-year battle with colon cancer.
In a social media post, it was reported that he died peacefully at home, surrounded by his wife and family.
Although he is no longer with us, we remember and celebrate his legacy, five years on.
At 43, Chadwick’s role in Black Panther catapulted him to global stardom and solidified his place in cinematic history. His powerful performances extended far beyond Wakanda.
‘Black Panther’ star Chadwick Boseman dies at 43
Prior to his passing, he starred in several big films, including ’21 Bridges’, ‘Get on Up’, ‘Avengers: Endgame’, and ‘Captain America: Civil War, each one showcasing his talent, depth, and dedication to his craft.
Beyond Wakanda
While many came to know him through the Marvel film projects, Chadwick Boseman had already been portraying Black excellence on screen for years.
Here are a few highlights from his groundbreaking career:
In 2013, Boseman portrayed baseball legend Jackie Robinson in 42, honouring the first Black player in modern Major League Baseball to take the field with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947.
His performance was lauded for its grace, intensity, and historical importance.
In 2014, he played James Brown in the musical biopic ‘Get on Up’, fully embodying “The Hardest-Working Man in Show Business.”
Boseman performed all the dancing and even sang several songs himself, capturing the raw energy and charisma of the soul legend.
In 2016, he portrayed the Egyptian god ‘Thoth’ in ‘Gods of Egypt’, acting alongside Nikolaj Coster-Waldau and Gerard Butler.
The same year, he joined the Marvel Universe in Captain America: Civil War, introducing audiences to the fierce and noble King of Wakanda.
He also starred in films such as ‘Message from the King’, Marshall, and ‘Da Five Bloods’, all of which displayed his remarkable range and deep commitment to telling Black stories with dignity and power.
As a proud graduate of Howard University (Class of 2000), Chadwick Boseman left behind more than just a body of work.
He left behind a legacy. One that continues to empower, uplift, and resonate deeply across generations.
JHM/EB
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