Michael B. Jordan Honors Chadwick Boseman: ‘I’m Dedicating the Rest of My Days to Live the Way You Did’
Michael B. Jordan has shared a touching tribute to his “Black Panther” co-star Chadwick Boseman, following the actor’s shocking death due to colon cancer on Aug. 28.
The two starred together in the blockbuster “Black Panther,” which made Boseman a household name, in addition to the star of Marvel’s first Black superhero film. Jordan played the villain Erik Killmonger, who faced off against Black Panther and was revealed to be his long-lost cousin.
The two actors knew each other long before they shared the screen together. In a 2018 Howard University commencement speech, Boseman said he turned down a role on “All My Children” early in his career because of the stereotypical depiction of the character. Coincidentally, Jordan ended up being recast in the role when he was 16.
“You showed 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,” Jordan wrote in his tribute posted to Instagram on Monday night.
Video: ‘Avengers’ stars honor Chadwick Boseman
Read Jordan’s full tribute to Boseman below.
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.
I wish we had more time.
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 showed 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.
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.
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.
More from Variety
Best of Variety
Sign up for Variety’s Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.