It's hard to believe that it's been five years since the world lost Chadwick Boseman, the charismatic and composed star of Black Panther and Da 5 Bloods who died aged just 43 after a lengthy private battle with colon cancer. In the years since his passing however, the screen icon's legacy has lived on — in the poignant Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, in the memories shared by his peers and loved ones, and in the generation of young Black kids who've been inspired to follow in his footsteps. And, next week, Boseman is set to be honoured with a richly deserved posthumous star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has announced that Boseman is set to be honoured with his star at a ceremony to be held on 20 November, at which his Black Panther director Ryan Coogler and Ma Rainey's Black Bottom co-star Viola Davis will speak about their colleague and friend. Boseman's widow, Simone Ledward-Boseman, is set to accept the honour on her late husband's behalf. In a statement accompanying the announcement of Boseman's star, Hollywood Walk of Fame producer Ana Martinez said the following: "The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is deeply honored to celebrate Chadwick Boseman’s extraordinary legacy with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His powerful performances and enduring impact both on and off screen continue to inspire generations around the world."
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Despite his tragically cut short time on this Earth, Chadwick Boseman did more in his 43 years than many could ever hope to with twice as long. From starring in the likes of Get On Up and Jackie Brown biopic 42, to earning an Oscar nomination for his electrifying turn in Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, to immortalising himself in the cultural consciousness as the Black Panther for now and for always, Boseman's star shone brightly and he carried its light with grace, humility, and — as we now know — tremendous courage. All of us here at Empire are delighted to see that Boseman's effervescent spirit and abundant talent is now being recognised with a real star fit for a real star.