Hollywood actor, Chadwick Boseman, who was popular for his major role in Black Panther in the Marvel blockbuster classic, died on Friday of cancer. He died at his home in the Los Angeles area with his wife and family by his side, his publicist Nicki Fioravante told The Associated Press news agency.
Boseman was diagnosed with colon cancer four years ago, his family said in a statement. He was 43.
Born in South Carolina, Boseman graduated from Howard University and had small roles in television before his first star turn in 2013. His striking portrayal of the stoic baseball star Robinson opposite Harrison Ford in 2013′s 42 shot him into the spotlight. The following year, he amazed audiences as Brown in the biopic Get On Up.
His T’Challa character was first introduced to the blockbuster Marvel movies in 2016′s Captain America: Civil War, and his Wakanda Forever salute trended around the world after the release of Black Panther two years ago. It won three Academy Awards – in the best original score, best costume design and best production design categories.
However, tributes have been pouring out from friends, colleagues and fans following the sad news of Boseman’s death on social media:
“This is a crushing blow,” actor and director Jordan Peele said on Twitter.
“This broke me,” said actor and writer Issa Rae.
Captain America actor Chris Evans called Boseman “a true original. He was a deeply committed and constantly curious artist. He had so much amazing work still left to create.”
Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden tweeted that Boseman “inspired generations and showed them they can be anything they want – even super heroes”.
Boseman’s Marvel co-star Mark Ruffalo tweeted: “Brother, you were one of the all time greats and your greatness was only beginning. Lord love ya. Rest in power, King.”