The MTV VMAs paid tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman at the start of the show on August 30. Host Keke Palmer dedicated the show to the ‘Black Panther’ actor. Chadwick died after a 4-year battle with colon cancer, his team confirmed on August 28.
The MTV Video Music Awards dedicated Sunday night’s 2020 show to Black Panther actor Chadwick Boseman. Host Keke Palmer opened the show by addressing the “devastating” passing of Chadwick, who she called a “true hero.” Chadwick’s family and team confirmed that the actor died after a four-year battle with colon cancer in a statement on his official Twitter account on August 28. He was 43.
Keke Palmer honors Chadwick Boseman at the #VMAs “We dedicate tonight’s show to the man whose spirit touched so many. He is a true hero, not just on screen but in everything he did. His impact lives forever.” pic.twitter.com/Gs3IZYXa2c
— Alyssa Bailey (@alyssabailey) August 31, 2020
“Before we get into the music tonight, we need to talk about the devastating loss of Chadwick Boseman, an actor whose talent and passion is a true inspiration to all the fans he touched and everyone he encountered,” Keke said. “We dedicate tonight’s show to the man whose spirit touched so many. He’s a true hero — not just on screen, but in everything he did. His impact lives forever,” she concluded. MTV later tweeted that “tonight’s show is dedicated to him.”
After Keke’s speech, MTV aired a separate tribute to Chadwick, which showed a resurfaced clip of his appearance at the MTV Movie Awards in 2018. After accepting the “Best Hero” trophy during the 2018 show, the actor invited James Shaw Jr., who disarmed a gunman during a shooting in a Tennessee Waffle House, to the stage.
The world needs more superheroes, and we all deserve to see ourselves in them. Chadwick Boseman helped make that happen.
Rest in power, #ChadwickBoseman. ?? #VMAs pic.twitter.com/Toy7iQOfXW
— VH1 (@VH1) August 31, 2020
The exact date of Chadwick’s death is unknown. His team confirmed his passing in a lengthy message on Twitter on August 28. “It is with immeasurable grief that we confirm the passing of Chadwick Boseman,” the statement began. “Chadwick was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016, and battled with it these last 4 years as it progressed to stage IV.” The actor never addressed his cancer diagnosis publicly.
pic.twitter.com/aZ2JzDf5ai
— Chadwick Boseman (@chadwickboseman) August 29, 2020
During that time, despite being in and out of hospitals for cancer treatment, Chadwick continued to make award-winning films. “A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you many of the films you have come to love so much,” the statement continued. “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.” The statement also noted, “It was the honor of his career to bring King T’Challa to life in Black Panther.”
Chadwick died in his home, with his wife and family by his side, the actor’s team confirmed. His family has respectfully asked for privacy during this time.
Hollywood, as well as the sports world, remembered Chadwick in emotional messages and tributes following the news of his passing. The NBA held a moment of silence in remembrance of Chadwick during the Playoffs on August 29 and 30. The actor was a friend of the league and he participated in the Slam Dunk Contest with Victor Oladipo during during NBA All-Star weekend in 2018.
Chadwick had been photographed in recent months appearing thinner than usual, which raised questions about his health. Back in April, the actor was photographed using a walking stick while heading to grab juice smoothies near his home in L.A with his mom Carolyn. That same month, Chadwick appeared noticeably thinner in an Instagram live video while discussing COVID-19 relief efforts.
Tonight, on August 30, ABC is airing Black Panther without commercials, followed by “Chadwick Boseman – A Tribute for a King” special. Our thoughts are with Chadwick’s loved ones during this time.
Sourse: hollywoodlife.com
