The late Chadwick Boseman left an unforgettable mark on entertainment and culture. His performances in films like 42, Black Panther, and Da 5 Bloods will serve as artistic monuments for the beloved actor.
When Boseman’s family announced his passing from colon cancer on August 28, people around the world expressed sadness that a talented man was gone but also celebrated the 43-year-old Howard University graduate’s life and work.
The outpouring of love for the Marvel Cinematic Universe regular was personified by the over 19 million likes for the last photo on the verified Chadwick Boseman Instagram page. According to the social media platform, that post which announced his death was the second most-liked IG post of 2020.
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The caption for that Boseman image read:
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. It was the honor of his career to bring King T’Challa to life in Black Panther. He died in his home, with his wife and family by his side. The family thanks you for your love and prayers, and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.
Portuguese professional soccer player Cristiano Ronaldo topped the tally with 19.7 million likes on his post about the death of soccer legend Diego Maradona. Posts by Lionel Messi (16.4 million likes), Kylie Jenner (16 million likes), and LeBron James (15.5 million likes) rounded out the Top 5.
Before Boseman’s death, he was able to film one final motion picture. Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom premiered on Netflix on December 18 and garnered rave reviews from professional movie critics. Marvel Studios also confirmed filmmakers will not recast King T’Challa in the upcoming Black Panther 2 movie out of respect for Boseman.