On August 28th, actor and Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman passed away at the age of 43, after having battled colon cancer since 2016.

This devastating news shocked the world as Boseman had been receiving treatment in secret and very few people were aware of his diagnosis until his family released a statement after his death, saying, “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.” 

Boseman began his acting career at an early age, appearing in small TV show roles before going on to star in several multi-million dollar films. He gained recognition for his roles in movies such as 42 (2013), Get on Up (2014), and Gods of Egypt (2016), before eventually being cast to play T’Challa in Marvel’s 2016 film, Captain America: Civil War.

Boseman’s most iconic film, Black Panther (2018) was groundbreaking in that it was the first Marvel film to feature a predominantly black cast. The film resonated with people of color all over the world as many of them had never seen their cultures represented in such a major film. In playing the first black Marvel superhero, Boseman also allowed many fans to see themselves for the first time in an industry that had previously given them little or no representation.

Much like his character T’Challa, Boseman was a strong person who inspired those around him. “Chadwick’s passing is absolutely devastating. He was our T’Challa, our Black Panther, and our dear friend. Each time he stepped on set, he radiated charisma and joy, and each time he appeared on screen, he created something truly indelible. He embodied a lot of amazing people in his work, and nobody was better at bringing great men to life. He was as smart and kind and powerful and strong as any person he portrayed. Now he takes his place alongside them as an icon for the ages. The Marvel Studios family deeply mourns his loss, and we are grieving tonight with his family,” said Kevin Feige, President of Marvel Studios, in a statement.

Even though he has passed, the impact that Chadwick Boseman has undoubtedly left on the world will carry on his legacy as the film industry continues to expand, and representation finds its way into more mainstream films.