Denzel Washington has paid tribute to ‘brilliant’ Chadwick Boseman, after it was announced the Black Panther star has died following a battle with cancer.
The two actors had a close bond, with Chadwick often speaking about how Denzel funded the programme that sent him to acting school, alongside actress Phylicia Rashād.
The Training Day star told 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.’
Speaking ahead of Denzel being presented with the AFI Life Achievement Award last year, Chadwick gave a moving speech, telling him: ‘I know personally that your generosity extends past what you have given on the stage and screen.
‘Many of you already know that the story that Mr Washington, when asked by Phylicia Rashād to join her in assisting nine theatre students from Howard University who had been accepted to a summer acting programme at the British Academy of Dramatic Acting in Oxford, he gracefully and privately agreed to contribute.
‘As fate would have it, I was one of the students that he paid for. Imagine receiving the letter that your tuition for that summer was paid for and that your benefactor was none other than the dopest actor on the planet.’
The iconic Black Panther star’s family confirmed that the actor had been diagnosed with stage three colon cancer four years ago, and that it had progressed to stage four.
Chadwick died with his wife Taylor and his family by his side.
The actor’s family confirmed the devastating news on Instagram, with a statement reading: ‘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.’
The actor’s colleagues, friends and fans have paid tribute following the heartbreaking news, with fellow Marvel star Samuel L Jackson writing: ‘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.’
Sterling K Brown, who appeared in Black Panther alongside Boseman, added: ‘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.’
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.’
MORE: Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman dies aged 43 from colon cancer
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