Chadwick Boseman left a legacy that will never be forgotten

“When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, ‘I used everything You gave me.” – Chadwick Boseman.

The world lost a true talent and hero on Friday, August 28th in Chadwick Boseman. At the age of 43, Boseman lost his 4 year long battle with colon cancer. Boseman’s condition was never disclosed to the public until his passing and during his cancer battle he continued and completed production on films such as “Marshall” and “Da 5 Bloods.”

Of course, it’s widely known across Hollywood that Boseman was a consummate professional – kind, giving and dedicated to his craft. This was evident based on the outpouring of love he received from actors and fans alike who thanked him for his change-making contributions to film.

Boseman had been working in film and television since 2003 but it was his work in the 2013 film, “42” where he played a young Jackie Robinson that made him a household name. Just a mere few years later he would go on to be cast as Black Panther in the new Marvel film, “Captain America: Civil War.” Little did anyone realize how much of a game-changer this would be for not only Boseman, but the world in general.

Like every Marvel superhero before him, it wasn’t a sure thing that Black Panther would receive his own movie. Boseman needed to make sure T’Challa connected with audiences in a new way that was completely unique to every other Marvel superhero before him. Within a matter of seconds, he managed to do just that after sharing a few lines with Scarlet Johansson’s Black Widow. T’Challa was suave, calm and loyal, speaking only when he felt it was necessary to speak and letting his actions speak for itself.

Fortunately, the instant relatability of Black Panther led to the superhero’s standalone, becoming the first superhero film to be led by a Black man and featured a predominately Black cast. With the talent of Ryan Coogler behind the scenes and a supporting cast of incredible actors alongside him, Boseman led “Black Panther” on a historically and culturally significant journey that will likely never be matched for years to come.

“Black Panther” smashed box office records and received accolades and awards that no other superhero film had ever received before. It also proved that Black actors and Black artists are more than capable of telling stories in any genre and any space. After, “Black Panther”, it became crystal clear to any doubters that Hollywood can no longer put Black actors and artists in a box, because just like Black Panther they will find their way to fight their way out of it.

While it took a team of talented people to make “Black Panther” the success it was, it was Boseman’s portrayal that made the King of Wakanda a cultural phenomenon. Now, Black children and children of colour can see themselves as the heroes they can be. Boseman broke down a barrier that has led to a diverse range of superheroes coming to the MCU in the years to come.

Boseman portrayed a character that represents a beacon of hope and legacy that will stand the test of time for current and future generations. While we all wished to see him take this character to new heights, we can rest easy knowing that he put his heart and soul into his work as Black Panther and has played a significant role in empowering people across the globe with the idea that they have the power to be the heroes of their own story, no matter what barriers stand in their way.

Rest in Peace and Power Chadwick, and thank you for being such an inspiration to us all. Wakanda Forever!