CHADWICK BOSEMAN
X2X celebrates the life of Chadwick Boseman, who passed away in late August.
Boseman's talents were apparent and dynamic, and his performances were emotionally nuanced yet powerful and fierce. Boseman earned the moniker so rarely afforded to many of his peers of color, “Leading Man in Hollywood”, a mantle that has been historically underrepresented. His impact on the American cultural landscape cannot be overstated.
Performances as Jackie Robinson in 42, James Brown in Get on Up, and Thurgood Marshall in Marshall all brought a sense of dignity and gravitas to each role and highlighted Black American stories; stories that have long been marginalized in Hollywood. His role as King T’Challa/Black Panther in the billion-dollar Marvel franchise Black Panther inspired a generation of children and adults who saw themselves represented for the first time at this level of a Hollywood blockbuster.
Black Panther was also the first Marvel movie to win an Academy Award and be nominated for Best Picture; a recognition of its significance and of the importance of Boseman. His grace, talent, and essence were perfect as THE face in Hollywood to convey and amplify Black culture at a time when it is greatly needed. His performances provided inspiration and joy in today’s difficult world and he embodied the character T’Challa’s spirit and will forever be remembered as a superhero.
"Wakanda will no longer watch from the shadows. We cannot. We must not. We will work to be an example of how we as brothers and sisters on this Earth should treat each other. Now, more than ever, the illusions of division threaten our very existence. We all know the truth: more connects us than separates us. But in times of crisis the wise build bridges, while the foolish build barriers. We must find a way to look after one another as if we were one single tribe."
KING T'CHALLA
King T’Challa in Black Panther
Jackie Robinson in 42
James Brown in Get on Up
Thurgood Marshall in Marshall
