The Black Panther actor Chadwick Boseman has tragically died following a four-year private battle with colon cancer, his representatives have confirmed.
The sad news was announced via a statement published on social media, saying that Chadwick continued to work as an actor alongside undergoing "countless surgeries and chemotherapy." His tragic death has particularly come as a shock to fans, as the actor didn't discuss his diagnosis publicly.
Published on social media, the statement reads:
"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 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."
Chadwick Boseman is best known for playing the title role in the blockbuster film Black Panther. He went on to play the same role in other Marvel films Captain America: Civil War, Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, and a Black Panther sequel was reportedly in the works.
Tributes have been pouring in for the star. Actor Dwayne Johnson tweeted, "Thank you for shining your light and sharing your talent with the world. My love and strength to your family."
Oprah Winfrey also paid tribute, tweeting, "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. This is what Dignity looks like."
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Meanwhile, the hashtag #WakandaForever has been trending, in reference to Black Panther.
Our thoughts go out to Chadwick's family and friends during this tragic time.
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Emily Gulla was Cosmopolitan UK’s Former Editorial Assistant/Junior Entertainment and Lifestyle Writer, covering celebs, TV and film for the site, magazine and video. She’s interviewed the casts of your favourite TV shows, from Bridgerton to Derry Girls and Stranger Things, as well as dozens of Love Islanders. She also loves getting stuck into long-read features, writing on all things digital culture (including her favourite topic: memes), and dating - having appeared on the radio to discuss dating.
Emily's work has also been published on ELLE, Women's Health, Harper's Bazaar, Digital Spy and more. She holds a First Class degree in English with Film Studies from King's College London, and even wrote her dissertation on Love Island. You can find Emily on Instagram and LinkedIn, and can see more of her work on her website.
