On August 28, the world lost an inspiration and a hero, not only in the movies but in real life. 

Chadwick Boseman was born on November 29, 1976. After graduating from Howard University, he started acting. He was an outspoken activist and was an inspiration to millions of young black people. He often spoke about the challenges that the historical figures he played went through, and his own challenges as being a successful black man. He also raised nearly one million dollars for black kids who couldn’t afford to see the movie could go. He wanted the kids to have a black man that they could look up to that was a hero, according to the “Support the Black Panther Challenge” page on Gofundme.com. He was also known for donating money to charities for cancer, boys and girls clubs of America, and many more. 

Chadwick Boseman studied directing at Howard University. He landed his first major roles as a regular on Lincoln Heights and Persons Unknown. Boseman is most famous for his roles as real life historical figures. He played Thurgood Marshall in Marshall, Jackie Robinson in 42, and James Brown in Get On Up. His most recent, and most known, role is as T’Challa in Black Panther. Chadwick won multiple awards; a few of which being the “BET award for Best Actor,” “MTV Movie award for Best Hero,” and many more. 

In 2016, Chadwick was diagnosed with stage three colon cancer. He kept his diagnosis private and continued to act through chemotherapy and multiple surgeries. The cancer eventually progressed to stage four. On August 24, 2020, Boseman’s team announced on Twitter that Chadwick had passed, with his wife and family by his side. 

Chadwick’s death was a shock to the world. Since he kept his personal life a secret, hardly anyone was aware of the battles that Chadwick faced. Many fellow actors and politicians – a few including Kamala Harris, Barack Obama, Joe Biden, Cris Pratt, and Kerry Washington – posted tributes and kind words about Chadwick Boseman. Kerry Washington said on her Twitter page on August 28 that Boseman was “A warrior of light til the very end. A true king. I am without words. May he rise in power.” 

Chadwick Boseman may not be here in person, but he will never be forgotten. His generosity and care for those in need is something we need more in this world. He will be seen as a hero for generations to come.