With the experience of loving and discovering celebrities comes the unfortunate reality of losing them. For many people around the world, that day was Aug. 28, 2020, the day Chadwick Boseman died.
Boseman began his successful acting career after studying directing at Howard University. Originally focusing on writing and directing, he soon made the choice to try his hand at acting.
His first on-screen role was a guest appearance in 2003 in a police series called The Third Watch. Following the theme, he continued with shows like Law & Order, CSI: NY, and ER.
Just about 10 years later, Boseman landed his breakthrough role starring as Jackie Robinson in 42. In this role, he gave a compelling portrayal of Robinson, pouring his heart and soul into the character.
During his new rise to fame, he continued to play historical figures such as James Brown in Get On Up and Thurgood Marshall in Marshall. Through this, he illuminated a spotlight on these important people in history, honoring their legacy.
In February of 2018, Marvel’s Black Panther was released, with Boseman starring as T’Challa. The film immediately became a global and cultural phenomenon, earning $1.3 billion worldwide at the box office. Fans showed their love for the movie, doing things like hosting Black Panther-themed birthday parties or dressing up as T’Challa on Halloween.
Pembroke Pines Charter High School (PPCHS) sophomore Stania Nortelus feels deeply connected to his films: “I was very young watching his films, but I remember how good they made me feel. Watching them back really reminds me how great of an actor he was.”
However, during this time, Boseman was fighting a private battle. In 2016, he was diagnosed with stage three colon cancer, which quickly progressed to stage four by 2020. He was able to keep his illness hidden for four years whilst still filming movies.
Many comments arose on his frail appearance and what could have caused this. Eventually, the whole world knew about his condition in August 2020, the month he died.
For a talented and brilliant actor, it was no surprise that fans experienced immense shock and grief. Many actors have given their support to his family, and fans continue to share their admiration for his work.
PPCHS sophomore Jibran Ahmad is a big fan of Boseman’s work and expresses his opinion, “I really love Marvel, and his work, so hearing about his death was really sad.”
Boseman, without a doubt, left a long-lasting impact on the acting world. In November of this year, he received a posthumous star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, honoring his powerful roles. Many close friends and costars, like Ryan Coogler, Michael B. Jordan, Letitia Wright, and Viola Davis, came to his star unveiling to honor his brilliance and the many hearts he touched.
Gone too soon from this world, Chadwick Boseman showed his strength by battling cancer while also playing strong roles, inspiring viewers who can see themselves in his grace and resilience. The world didn’t just mourn an actor but a figure who showed power, courage, and love, leaving a legacy that transcends acting.
