Chadwick Boseman has been hailed as a ‘true original’ and a ‘king’ by his devastated Marvel co-stars, following his death aged 43.
The Black Panther star’s family confirmed that the actor has died after being diagnosed with stage four colon cancer.
Boseman had secretly been undergoing cancer treatment since 2016.
In the wake of the heartbreaking news, his Marvel co-stars have been paying tribute to the talented star, who brought T’Challa to life on the big screen.
Chris Evans, who played Captain America opposite Boseman in Captain America: Civil War, Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame, wrote on Instagram: ‘I’m absolutely devastated. This is beyond heartbreaking. Chadwick was special. A true original. He was a deeply committed and constantly curious artist. Few performers have such power and versatility. He had so much amazing work still left to create. I’m endlessly grateful for our friendship. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Rest in power, King.’
Spider-Man star Tom Holland shared a photo of Boseman visiting children in hospital and wrote: ‘Chadwick, you were even more of a hero off screen than on. 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.’
Captain Marvel actress Brie Larson wrote: ‘Chadwick was someone who radiated power and peace. Who stood for so much more than himself. Who took the time to really see how you were doing and gave words of encouragement when you felt unsure. I’m honored to have the memories I have. The conversations, the laughter. My heart is with you and your family. You will be missed and never forgotten. Rest in power and peace my friend.’
Hulk actor Mark Ruffalo wrote: ‘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’; while Guardians Of The Galaxy star Chris Pratt sent his prayers to Boseman’s loved ones and wrote: ‘The world will miss his tremendous talent.’
Thor star Chris Hemsworth shared a picture of himself with the actor and wrote: ‘Gonna miss you mate. Absolutely heartbreaking. One of the kindest most genuine people I’ve met. Sending love and support to all the family.’
And Samuel L Jackson, who plays Nick Fury, tweeted: ‘THANK YOU @chadwickboseman for all you gave us. We needed it & will always cherish it! A talented & giving artist & brother who will be sorely missed. RIP.’
The official Marvel Twitter account posted a picture of Boseman as T’Challa, and wrote: ‘Our hearts are broken and our thoughts are with Chadwick Boseman’s family. Your legacy will live on forever. Rest In Peace.’
And MCU boss Kevin Feige said in a statement: ‘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.’
Outside of the MCU, Hollywood’s biggest stars have also been reacting to Chadwick’s death, paying tribute to his talent and kindness.
Halle Berry tweeted: ‘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.’
Denzel Washington – who quietly funded a programme which helped Boseman attend a prestigious theatre school – said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter: ‘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.’
Oprah Winfrey commented: ‘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. I’m in shock and awe!’, while Zoe Saldana wrote on Instagram: ‘The classiest avenger and most quiet warrior. My heart is heavy right now. I wished I had the courage to tell you how your performance of T’Challa was the best portrayal of a King I had ever seen. Rest in Power and Grace Brother. My sons will know your name forever!’
T’Challa’s infamous catchphrase ‘Wakanda forever’ began trending on Twitter as fans shared their memories of Boseman.
As well as his performances in Black Panther, 42, Get On Up, Marshall, 21 Bridges and Da 5 Bloods, fans have been remembering Boseman’s kindness on social media.
The actor had been a frequent visitor to children’s hospitals over the past few years, despite secretly undergoing cancer treatment himself.
A statement from Boseman’s family confirmed: ‘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 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 honour 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.’
MORE: Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman dies aged 43 from colon cancer
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