The world was stunned by the untimely passing of Hollywood’s rising star, Chadwick Boseman, in August 2020. The talented actor, best known for his iconic role as T’Challa in Marvel’s ‘Black Panther’, had been battling colon cancer for four years in secret. His sudden death left his fans, friends, and colleagues in shock and mourning. Among them, his co-star Viola Davis, who recently opened up about the special treatment Boseman received on the set of their film ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’.
In an emotional interview with NME, Davis shared her thoughts on working with Boseman and how she had no idea about his health struggles during filming. She expressed her admiration for the late actor’s strength and dedication, saying, “Little did I know that Chadwick was dying. He was in the midst of that, and I look back at that time and I think…that was a very special time because we knew he was going, and he still came to work every single day giving his best.”
Davis also revealed that Boseman had a unique approach to his character, Levee, in the Netflix adaptation of August Wilson’s play. She said, “He was very respectful in a way that he would keep his distance, but he would also lead with his work. He would lead with the character and he would put in the work, and it was just wonderful to watch.”
The 43-year-old actor’s dedication and professionalism on set did not go unnoticed by his co-stars. Davis recalled a particular scene where Boseman’s character has a monologue, and he gave his all despite struggling with his health. She said, “He would just go in toe-to-toe, just like a heavyweight boxer. I mean, he just went in. And I remember Chad would just go, ‘I don’t know how you do that.’ I said, ‘Well, you do it too. You just did it!'”
Boseman’s commitment to his craft and his unwavering positivity left a lasting impact on everyone who worked with him. Davis also shared how the actor would dance on set to keep the mood light and make everyone smile. She said, “He was a bit of a dancer, and he would dance in between scenes. And he would do it not just for himself, but to make us laugh. To make us feel good.”
The news of Boseman’s death was a shock to the entertainment industry, and it also raised concerns about the lack of diversity and representation in Hollywood. Davis, who is an advocate for equal opportunities for people of color in the industry, spoke about how Boseman’s passing has highlighted the need for more stories and perspectives from the Black community. She said, “It just makes me want to continue to fight for diversity and inclusion because there’s so many stories and so many voices that need to be heard.”
Chadwick Boseman’s legacy will continue to live on through his powerful performances and the impact he had on his colleagues. Viola Davis’s heartfelt words about her co-star serve as a reminder of the person Boseman was – humble, hardworking, and full of grace. Despite his struggles, he gave his all to his work and left a lasting impression on those around him. As Davis puts it, “He was a beautiful, beautiful human being, and I’m so glad that I got to experience him. I think we all are.”
In the wake of his passing, Chadwick Boseman’s fans and colleagues have come together to honor his memory and celebrate his life. His impact on the film industry and beyond will never be forgotten, and his light will continue to shine through his work. Rest in Power, Chadwick Boseman. Wakanda forever.
