Chadwick Boseman’s family and friends have paid their final respects to the actor who died of colon cancer last week. A private memorial service was conducted in his honor in Malibu, California based on photos obtained by The Sun.
According to the publication, many of his family, close friends, and co-stars were present during the ceremony including his better half Taylor Simone Ledward, Lupita Nyong’o, Michael B. Jordan, Winston Duke, and many more. Based on the photos, the memorial service included music from a hang drum and a portrait of the late actor was displayed alongside a beautiful floral display.
Presently, it’s unclear when exactly the service took place though it came after a week since the Black Panther star passed away. According to a statement posted in his social media accounts, Boseman was diagnosed in 2016 of colon cancer. In a span of four years, it progressed to stage IV. Boseman was a true fighter who persevered through everything to bring many films his fans love so much.
Boseman had surgeries and chemotherapies in between filming his movies. In fact, it was the biggest honor of his career to play King T’Challa in Black Panther. Based on the statement, the actor died at his home with his wife and loved ones around him. The family extended their gratitude to those who sent their love and prayers and asked that people will continue to respect their privacy during this time.
Following the news of the actor’s death, many of his colleagues shared their grief over losing him. Michael B. Jordan penned a very touching message on his Instagram account which started, “I’ve been trying to find the words, but nothing comes close to how I feel. I’ve been reflecting on every moment, every conversation, every laugh, every disagreement, every hug…everything. I wish we had more time.”
He continued on to say, “One of the last times we spoke, you said we were forever linked, and now the truth of that means more to me than ever. Since nearly the beginning of my career, starting with All My Children when I was 16 years old you paved the way for me. You showed me how to be better, honor purpose, and create legacy. And whether you’ve known it or not…I’ve been watching, learning and constantly motivated by your greatness.”
“I’m more aware now than ever that time is short with people we love and admire. I’m gonna miss your honesty, your generosity, your sense of humor, and incredible gifts. I’ll miss the gift of sharing space with you in scenes. I’m dedicating the rest of my days to live the way you did. With grace, courage, and no regrets. ‘Is this your king!?’ Yes . he . is! Rest In Power Brother,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, Winston Duke also paid tribute to Boseman on his Instagram account. “How do I start to honor a man who I saw as a giant in many ways; with whom I thought I had so much more time,” he started his message. “I am absolutely devastated by the loss of my friend and hero, Chadwick Boseman…”
He shared, “Chadwick, Thank you! Chadwick, you are the best…you are me and I’m you and we are all one. He went on to write, “Thanks for being someone I could look up to on and off screen … our calm confidence was inspiring and exemplary. Thanks for sharing with me… you go ahead …you did your job and did it well! You will NEVER be forgotten. Your heroism is now legend. We’ll carry the load and honor your legacy, the rest of the way! Bless King! #chadwickboseman #wakandaforever.”
On the other hand, Angela Basset revealed that it was meant for her and Boseman to be family but what many aren’t aware of is the fact that their story started long before Black Panther.
She revealed that during the premiere party of the said movie, Boseman reminded her that he was the one who escorted her when she received her honorary degree at Howard University, his alma mater. She continued that years later they became friends and colleagues. They would often spend weeks sitting next to each other while preparing for the day just like a real-life mother and son.
She concluded by saying that she felt honored and enjoyed the experience. His dedication was very inspiring and referred to his smile as contagious. She also mentioned that his talent was unreal. She ended her tribute with #WakandaForever.
Jordan, Duke, and Basset aren’t the only ones who wrote memorable tributes for Chadwick Boseman. Many of his co-stars and those he worked with as well as his friends shared tributes to the late actor.
