‘Black Panther’ Star Chadwick Boseman Dead at 43: Cause of Death Revealed

Chadwick Boseman from Instagram

One of our favorite Marvel stars sadly passed away today. Chadwick Boseman, known for his role as Black Panther in the Marvel universe, died at 43 from a lengthy battle with colon cancer, TMZ reports.

Boseman’s family released an official statement confirming his death:

It is with immeasurable grief that we confirm the passing of Chadwick Boseman.⁣ Chadwick was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016, and battled with it these last 4 years as it progressed to stage IV. ⁣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 goes on to say that he passed away at home surrounded by his wife and family.

The World Mourns the Loss of Chadwick Boseman

Fans and co-stars quickly offered their condolences.

“This is such devastating news. We’re praying for his family. The world has lost an immeasurable talent and a great person,” wrote Guardians of the Galaxy star, Chris Pratt.

Chance the Rapper wrote, “Wow. We love you so much. Thank you for being so kind. You will be painfully missed. God bless you.”

Director and actor Jordan Peele tweeted his response to learning of Boseman’s death:

Fans know Peele is not the only one who feels this way. Chadwick Boseman also significantly contributed to Black representation in media.

A Cinematic Icon

Back in 2013, Chadwick Boseman starred as Jackie Robinson in the film, 42.

“The story is relevant because we still stand on his shoulders. He started something – I would even say maybe he didn’t even start it, it started before him. But he carried the torch. And he carried it alone for a period of time before other people could help him,” said Boseman.

As the first Black Marvel hero, Chadwick Boseman also carried his own torch. His contributions to the Marvel franchise were memorable, and it definitely won’t be the same without him. Executives planned a Black Panther sequel for 2022, but those plans are likely now on hold. He also lent his voice to What If…? but it is also unclear how the show will progress without him. Only time will tell.

He Prefered to Keep His Illness Quiet

Many of Boseman’s fans didn’t even know he was sick but were concerned something was very wrong. He appeared very thin in an Instagram post from April:

https://www.instagram.com/tv/B_BgHvnF0UI/?utm_source=ig_embed

The Associated Press reports Boseman was not public about his diagnosis.

Please share your favorite Chadwick Boseman memories with us in the comments. We’re very sad to learn of his passing and we wish his family peace.

Nikole Behrens
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