The Hollywood star died at home with his wife and family by his side, according to a statement from his family. He had not spoken publicly about his diagnosis, which he had battled for four years. The family statement said: “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 honour of his career to bring King T’Challa to life in Black Panther.”
The family added: “The family thanks you for your love and prayers, and asks you to continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.”
The NAACP, one of the leading civil rights groups in the US, shared a tribute to Boseman on Twitter.
Boseman’s portrayal of Marvel superhero Black Panther was lauded as an important landmark in the fight for wider representation in Hollywood.
The NAACP said: “For showing us how to conquer adversity with grace… For showing us how to “Say it Loud!”
“… For showing us how to walk as a King, without losing the common touch…. For showing us just how powerful we are…
“Thank you #ChadwickBoseman #RestInPower #BlackPantherForever.”
Born in South Carolina, Boseman originally wanted to become a writer and director, graduating from Howard University in 2000 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in directing.
He appeared in a number of TV roles while continuing to write plays, with his script for the 2005 play Deep Azure being nominated for a Jeff Award – given to theatre arts produced in the Chicago area.
After moving to Los Angeles to pursue his acting career, Boseman’s breakthrough role came in the 2013 film 42, in which he starred as baseball pioneer Robinson.
Boseman again assumed the role of an iconic black figure when he starred as singer soul singer Brown in the 2014 film Get on Up.
But his most influential role came when he suited up as King T’Challa of Wakanda in the 2018 Marvel film Black Panther.
READ MORE: Captain Marvel box office ‘tracking over BILLION-dollar Black Panther’
British Oscar nominee Cynthia Erivo said Boseman was “a gentleman” and “the kindest superhero I have ever met”.
Joe Biden, the Democratic Party’s presidential nominee, praised Boseman’s impact, saying his portrayal of Black Panther “inspired generations”.
He said: “The true power of Chadwick Boseman was bigger than anything we saw on screen. From the Black Panther to Jackie Robinson, he inspired generations and showed them they can be anything they want – even super heroes.”
The former vice president added he and wife Jill were praying for Boseman’s loved ones.