Who was Chadwick Boseman? Some would say a friend, co worker, son, husband, Howard University alumni, actor and brilliant mind. I call him a hero. Both on and off screen. Chadwick Boseman was born in Anderson , SC on November 29, 1976. According to Boseman, DNA testing indicated that some of his ancestors were Krio people from Sierra Leone, Yoruba people from Nigeria and Limba people from Sierra Leone. He was an actor, screenwriter, and director. He graduated with a Bachelor Of The Arts degree in Directing from Howard University an HBCU. He then attended the British American Drama Academy in Oxford, England.
Boseman has performed in a number of stage productions, including Breathe, Romeo and Juliet, Bootleg Blues, Zooman, and Willie's Cut and Shine. He won an AUDELCO award for his role as the teen E.J. in 2002's Urban Transitions: Loose Blossoms, a play by Ron Milner about a struggling African American family pulled in by the temptation of fast cash. He's also worked as part of the Hip Hop Theatre Festival and has written the plays Hieroglyphic Graffiti, Deep Azure and Rhyme Deferred. Additionally, he has directed a number of stage productions, as well as the short film Blood Over a Broken Pawn.
You may have seen his works in the likes of 42, Get On Up - The story of James Brown and others. His most notable film was that of Black Panther. He played T'Challa.
Black Panther was a phenomenon. Grossing 1.3 Billion. It was the super hero movie of our times. Chadwick's impeccable and apparent attention to detail made him shine as one of the most memorable heroes to grace our screens. Black Panther created a silent movement and determination to thrive and achieve. It brought dignity and vision for many African Americans in the US and African descendants all over the world. I remember seeing the trailer for the first time and being amazed at what I'd just experienced. That was just the trailer!
Kids and adults alike would look at Mr. Boseman as super human even off screen much like that of Christopher Reeves as Superman in the late 70's. Some actors will always be their part whether they like it or not. This is a fact that Chadwick Boseman was proud to accept.
He represented and advocated for pride and success with a very soft spot for children suffering with illnesses. Chadwick Boseman's fate although sad and shocking was not found void. He gave his all in everything he touched. His amazing talent in dancing and singing was shown in the movie "Get On Up" The story of James Brown. Definitely recommended.
Chadwick Boseman was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer in 2016. He kept this private and continued to pursue his dreams. Knowing this makes his accomplishments all the more admirable. He had a very close circle that kept this information quiet per his wishes. I only wish I'd know so that I could have sent out prayers and good vibes his way. Chadwick lost his battle to cancer on August 28th 2020. He was married to his long time girlfriend just months before his death. He died with his wife and family surrounding him at his home.
Thank you Chadwick for being such an incredible actor, man, student, teacher and hero. You represented everything possible with determination and drive. Black Panther will go down in history as one of the greatest Marvel movies of all time. May you rest in power. Thank you for all of your work. Kids from 8 to 80 will forever be grateful. WAKANDA FOREVER.
Kelli Cook