Chadwick Boseman passed away recently and he was remembered during the 2020 MTV VMAs.
Keke Palmer hosted the award show on August 30 and she started the night with a very touching speech about the Black Panther actor. He referred to him as an actor whose talent and passion served as a true inspiration especially to the fans he touched and all those he encountered. She stated that they were dedicating the show to Chadwick whose spirit touched many people. She added that he is a true hero not only onscreen but in everything he did. She concluded by saying that his impact lives forever.
Aside from Keke’s speech, MTV also aired a segment from Chadwick’s speech during the 2018 MTV TV and Movie Awards.
The actor’s death was confirmed last Friday, August 28, through a statement which was shared in his social media accounts. Based on the announcement, the 43-year-old actor was diagnosed of colon cancer and he had been seeking treatment privately for the last four years.
A part of the statement mentioned that Chadwick was a true fighter and persevered through it all. He had brought fans many films such as Marshall, Da 5 Bloods, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, and more. Above all, he brought King T’Challa to life in the Marvel movie, Black Panther. He filmed many of these movies which undergoing surgeries and chemotherapy.
Moreover, the statement revealed that he died at his home with Taylor Simone Ledward, his wife, by his side. Before his death, fans didn’t know that he married the singer though rumors of their engagement spread in October 2019. However, the couple never addressed the speculation.
Aside from remembering Chadwick, Keke also called to end systemic racism. She said 2020 has been a rough year but there have been inspiring moments that also give her generation hope. She specifically mentioned the Black Lives Matter movement which is instrumental for her generation to step up and be heard.
Keke Palmer concluded her opening by reminding viewers that they are the leaders of the movement and to be the change they want to see. She said the show is all about love and making impossible possible as they push the boundaries of music performances at the VMAs.
