The Weeknd, Mariah Carey, Drake And More Pay Tribute To Chadwick Boseman

The news of Chadwick Boseman’s unfortunate death shook the world Friday night (August 28). The Black Panther star died in his home alongside his wife and family after privately battling stage IV colon cancer for four years. He was 43 years old.

The music community took to social media to honor and remember Boseman, who inspired so many with his roles in movies such as 42, Get On Up and of course, Marvel’s Black Panther, where he played fan-favorite superhero T’Challa.

The Weeknd and SZA, who were both featured on the official The Black Panther soundtrack, began the tributes with their posts on Instagram. 

“Down as hell about this shit. Wow… thank you for changing our lives! Thank you for always being kind,” SZA expressed. “I’m so honored to have met you at all. A true legend and light! Praying for your family’s guidance and ultimate healing rn. Rest well King.”

“This is too heartbreaking. Gone way too soon. Rip,” The Weeknd penned.

Mariah Carey and Halsey took to Twitter to honor the late actor, recognizing his exquisite talent and everlasting legacy.

“This is heartbreaking. Thank you for persevering through it all. You leave behind an incredible body of work and an inspiring legacy. Rest in power. Chadwick Forever.”

“An absolutely brilliant, charismatic human. And an especially kind face. Millions of lives were changed and inspired because of his dedication to his craft. Today is an inexplicably sad day.”

Janelle Monáe had one of the most candid reactions to the news saying, “Cancel everything. My God.” The sentiments were felt by many as the public wasn’t aware that the respected actor had cancer.

Hip-hop artists were understandably at a loss of words and instead expressed their grief with emojis. Drake posted a photo of Boseman with a dove emoji, paw prints and a sad face while DJ Khaled listed prayer hands and Snoop Dogg captioned his post with prayer hands as well as a face with a tear.

John Legend also expressed how “shocked” and “heartbroken” he was over the news. His tribute highlights his character, talent and overall influence on others.

“I’m so shocked and heartbroken about Chadwick. He was such a bright light, such a gifted performer. He brought grace, elegance and power to everything he did. He always seemed to carry our ancestors with him. And now he joins them far too soon.”