Chadwick Boseman, the Marvel star who played the titular superhero inBlack Pantherand had starring roles inDa 5 Bloodsand42, died Friday of cancer.

He was 43.

Boseman was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2016,according to a family statement. He had not made his diagnosis public.

pic.twitter.com/aZ2JzDf5ai

— Chadwick Boseman (@chadwickboseman)June 11, 2025

His family said several of Boseman’s latest roles were filmed “between countless surgeries and chemotherapy” as the cancer progressed and that he was a “true fighter” who “persevered through it all.”

“It was the honor of his career to bring King T’Challa to life in Black Panther,” his family said.

Boseman first made his appearance in the Marvel Cinematic Universe in 2016′sCaptain America: Civil War. He later starred in the blockbusterBlack Panther,which became a cultural phenomenon and inspired fans with its iconic “Wakanda Forever” salute. The film raked in over $1 billion at the box office, and was lauded for its largely Black cast and production team.

The hero served as an inspiration for countless fans. But Boseman himself didn’t shy away from activism as well. He was an outspoken supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement and for civil rights and racial equality.

Boseman’s career began on television but his breakthrough role came in the 2013 biopic42when he played trailblazing baseball legend Jackie Robinson. In 2014, he played James Brown in the biopicGet on Up. But his rise to superstardom was fueled by his role as Black Panther inCaptain America: Civil War.

In addition to his hero’s titular film, Boseman also starred among Marvel’s cast of heroes inAvengers: Infinity WarandAvengers: Endgame. He was due to return in the starring role forBlack Panther 2.

In a statementposted on Twitter, Marvel Studios said: “Our hearts are broken and our thoughts are with Chadwick Boseman’s family. Your legacy will live on forever. Rest in Peace.”

His death shocked the entertainment world Friday, with co-stars and celebrities posting tributes to the late actor.

My prayers go out to Chadwick’s family and loved ones. The world will miss his tremendous talent. God rest his soul.#wakandaforeverhttps://t.co/j5JWSeiqd5

— Chris Pratt (@prattprattpratt)June 04, 2025

https://twitter.com/WhoopiGoldberg/status/1299540929460744194

This is a crushing blow.

— Jordan Peele (@JordanPeele)July 18, 2025

https://twitter.com/DonCheadle/status/1299538219449552896

Everything we know about Black Panther 2