Chadwick Boseman black Panther

In this file photo, the late Chadwick Boseman arrives for the 91st Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California on 24 February 2019. Image: Robyn Beck / AFP

Black Panther actor Chadwick Boseman passes away aged 43

A statement on Twitter said it was the honour of Chadwick Boseman’s career to bring King T’Challa to life in Black Panther.

Chadwick Boseman black Panther

In this file photo, the late Chadwick Boseman arrives for the 91st Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California on 24 February 2019. Image: Robyn Beck / AFP

Black Panther actor Chadwick Boseman, 43, has passed away after a four-year battle with cancer.

A statement issued out on Boseman’s Twitter early on Saturday 29 August said; “it is with immeasurable grief that we confirm the passing of Chadwick Boseman”.

CHADWICK BOSEMAN PASSES AWAY AFTER BATTLING CANCER

Boseman was diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer in 2016 and battled with it these last four years as it progressed to Stage 4.

“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,” the statement read.

“It was the honour of his career to bring King T’Challa to life in Black Panther,” it added.

Boseman 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.

TRIBUTES POUR IN

Locally, actress Pearl Thusi wrote a message for Boseman on Twitter. She said; “Rest in eternal Peace Chadwick Boseman. Just found out he was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2016 and continued to work through treatments. Thank you Chadwick for your incredible contribution to the arts! Your legacy will live on forever!”

Mark Ruffalo, who starred as the Hulk many of us know, said; “It was the highest honor getting to work with you and getting to know you. What a generous and sincere human being. You believed in the sacred nature of the work and gave your all. Much love to your family. And much love from all of us left here.”

Boseman portrayed several real-life historical figures, such as Jackie Robinson in 42 (2013), James Brown in Get on Up (2014), and Thurgood Marshall in Marshall (2017).