(CNN)Chadwick Boseman, the man who brought Black Panther to life, has died.
The actor died in his home, with his family and wife by his side, a statement posted on the actor’s Twitter account said. He has been battling colon cancer since 2016.
“A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you so many of the films you have come to love so much,” the statement said.
“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 said the role of King T’Challa was the “honor of (Boseman’s) career.”
The actor has also starred in other films, including playing James Brown in “Get On Up” and Jackie Robinson in “42.”
CNN’s Lisa Respers France contributed to this report.
This breaks the heart of black America a real good brother had died. He was a gift to our community and he was a master of his art. It is not often a star shine this bright and when it goes out the world mourns. Our community is going to feel this different. It is going to mourn this brother forever. Wakanda forever rests in peace King. The black community is crying.
