New York: Actor Chadwick Boseman, who played Black icons Jackie Robinson and James Brown before finding fame as the regal Black Panther in the Marvel cinematic universe, died on Friday of cancer, his representative said. He was 43.
Boseman died at his home in the Los Angeles area with his wife and family by his side, his publicist told The Associated Press.
Boseman was diagnosed with colon cancer four years ago, his family said in a statement.
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“A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you many of the films you have come to love so much,” they said.
“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. It was the honor of his career to bring King T’Challa to life in Black Panther."
In April this year, Boseman left his fans worried and anxious about his health when he made an appearance in a slimmer frame on social media. Actor's appearance had shocked fans during an Instagram Live where he looked gaunt, causing followers to wonder if he was doing okay.
Boseman had not spoken publicly about his diagnosis.
