Wakanda Forever! The Unbreakable Friendship of Chadwick Boseman and Lupita Nyong’o
Chadwick Boseman and Lupita Nyong’o's friendship extended beyond 'Black Panther.' They shared a love and respect that translated on-screen.
By D.M.July 24 2024, Published 5:35 p.m. ET
The friendship between Chadwick Boseman and Lupita Nyong’o goes beyond their on-screen roles. Their bond reflects a deep camaraderie that continues to inspire fans even after Chadick’s passing in 2020.
Chadwick Boseman and Lupita Nyong’o first crossed paths during the production of Marvel’s groundbreaking film Black Panther in 2016. As they brought the characters of T’Challa and Nakia to life, their off-screen relationship blossomed into a close friendship.
“Chadwick is truly a magnetic person. He's magnetic," Lupita said during an interview with E! News, adding, “Chemistry is something that you pray for as an actor because it's so hard to fabricate it. It's so much easier to just have it and work on other things—your intention, your action, and all that. To try to fabricate chemistry is another. It's a lot of energy.”
Chadwick Boseman and Lupita Nyong’o’s friendship runs deeper than ‘Black Panther.’
Chadwick Boseman and Lupita Nyong’o held each other in high regard. They often expressed their admiration for one another, which grew after filming Black Panther. Their work in the film broke box office records, earning more than $1 billion worldwide, according to Box Office Mojo.
Black Panther stars Lupita Nyong'o and Chadwick Boseman backstage at The Apollo Theater
Chadwick and Lupita’s performances were central to the film's success, and their on-screen chemistry was a reflection of their real-life friendship. Lupita has described Chadwick as a man of quiet strength and dignity, praising his dedication to his craft and his ability to lead with humility.
Chadwick, in turn, spoke highly of Nyong’o’s talent and her commitment to her roles. “It's not hard to fall in love with Lupita,” Chadwick said of his friend. “She's a beautiful person. She's intelligent, strong, assertive. You fall in love with people when you see them in their light, when you see them doing what they do, and they illuminate a certain aura.”
Chadwick Boseman passed away after battling an illness privately.
Lupita Nyong’o continues to honor the life of Chadwick Boseman, often sharing tributes to his actor on social media to celebrate his life. The Oscar winner has described Chadwick as someone who “made the most of his time, and somehow also managed to take his time,” (via Deadline). Her words resonated with many, capturing the essence of Boseman’s spirit and the profound loss felt by those who knew him.
Lupita Nyong'o and Chadwick Boseman, winners of Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture for 'Black Panther,'
Chadwick died at the age of 43 after a four-year battle with colon cancer — a struggle he chose to keep private. He was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016, a year before the release of Black Panther. Despite the severity of his condition, Chadwick continued to work. He delivered show-stopping performances in films like Marshall, 21 Bridges, Da 5 Bloods, and Ma Rainey's Black Bottom.
Chadwick’s death was announced through a post on his official X account, stating, "It is with immeasurable grief that we confirm the passing of Chadwick Boseman. Chadwick was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016 and battled with it these last four years as it progressed to stage IV."
