“I wish we had more time.”
Those powerful six words were penned by Michael B. Jordan in a touching, heartbreaking tribute to Chadwick Boseman. Michael and Chadwick starred together in Marvel’s 2018 hit Black Panther.
Chadwick passed away on Friday after a private four-year battle with colon cancer. His seemingly sudden death sent shockwaves throughout Hollywood and a world unaware of his personal health struggles.
Since then, loving tributes have poured in for the beloved actor, from other celebrities, personalities, and from the many whose lives he touched throughout the years. His fellow stars from his MARVEL family have also expressed their sadness and grief via personal posts and statements, and have spoken of their love for the actor.
The first few days after his passing however, one person chose to stay silent: His Black Panther co-star, Michael B. Jordan, with whom he had shared not just making the groundbreaking film but countless interviews and memorable moments together.
On Monday, Michael finally broke his silence. Taking to Instagram, he shared a beautiful, heartfelt message that captured his heartbreak over his co-star and friend’s demise:
“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.”
He went on to write about one of the last conversations he shared with Chadwick and how Chadwick told him they were “forever linked”:
“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 shows 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.”
Michael then spoke about what a legend and hero Chadwick had been in real life. How Chadwick was his big brother — and he never really got the chance to tell him that:
“I wish we had more time.
Everything you’ve given the world … the legends and heroes that you’ve shown us we are … will live on forever. But the thing that hurts the most is that I now understand how much of a legend and hero YOU are. Through it all, you never lost sight of what you loved most. You cared about your family , your friends, your craft, your spirit. You cared about the kids, the community, our culture and humanity. You cared about me.
You are my big brother, but I never fully got a chance to tell you, or to truly give you your flowers while you were here.”
Michael ended his heartaching post by writing:
“I wish we had more time.
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.”
Along with his moving, powerful tribute, Michael also shared photos of him and his “big brother” Chadwick together.
Our hearts and prayers go out to Chadwick’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.
Rest in power, Chadwick Boseman.
