Chadwick Boseman’s friends and loved ones gathered to pay their final respects to the late actor in a private memorial on Saturday (September 5) in Malibu, California.
The Black Panther star passed away on August 28, after a four-year battle with colon cancer. He was 43.
His passing was announced in a statement posted on social media, which reads:
“It is with immeasurable grief that we confirm the passing of Chadwick Boseman.
Chadwick was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016, and battled with it these last 4 years as it progressed to stage IV.
A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you many of the films you have come to love so much. From Marshall to Da 5 Bloods, August Wilson’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom and several more, all were filmed during and between countless surgeries and chemotherapy.
It was the honor of his career to bring King T’Challa to life in Black Panther.
He died in his home, with his wife and family by his side.
The family thanks you for your love and prayers, and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.”
In photos obtained by The Sun, his wife Taylor Simone Ledward, as well as Black Panther co-stars Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong’o, and Winston Duke, were photographed attending the private memorial held at a spot overlooking the ocean.
There was a beautiful table display that held flowers and Chadwick’s photo. There was also gentle music from a hang drum during the event.
Last week, his hometown of Anderson, South Carolina, honored Chadwick in a community event held at an outdoor ampitheater, and featured performances and various Chadwick-themed artwork from local artists.
Mayor Terence Roberts shared a few words. Deanna Brown Thomas later went onstage and spoke of her first meeting with Chadwick, who portrayed her dad, the legendary James Brown, in Get On Up. She also called him a “king.”
The late actor will be laid to rest in his hometown. WYFF-Channel 4 reports that private arrangements have been made with Marcus D. Brown Funeral Home – but it’s still unclear when his homegoing will be taking place.
“The family has always been a very humble family through the years,” the funeral home’s president Marcus Brown said. “They’re humble, and not necessarily private-private but normal people.”
Their family has asked for the public to respect their privacy.
