Chadwick Boseman, best known for his starring role as Black Panther, is being remembered by many in Hollywood as much for his kindness as his talent after his death over the weekend at the age of 43 from colon cancer, according to Variety.
“Chadwick’s passing is absolutely devastating,” Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios, said in a statement. “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.”
Boseman kept his battle with colon cancer a secret and was first diagnosed four years ago, according to a statement posted to his personal Twitter account. It added many of his famous movies “were filmed during and between countless surgeries and chemotherapy.” Black Panther director Ryan Coogler said he was shocked by the news, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
“Because he was a caretaker, a leader, and a man of faith, dignity and pride, he shielded his collaborators from his suffering,” Coogler said. “He lived a beautiful life. And he made great art. Day after day, year after year. That was who he was. He was an epic firework display. I will tell stories about being there for some of the brilliant sparks till the end of my days.”
In honor of his death, ABC aired Black Panther on Sunday night, followed by a tribute special, Chadwick Boseman: A Tribute For A King.
