Today is the fifth anniversary of the death of actor
Chadwick Boseman, who died of colon cancer on August 28, 2020. He was 43.
In remembering and honoring Chadwick today, I share (with added images and links) the following article by Paige Boyd,
published earlier today at
Majicatl.com.
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Five years ago, the world lost a monumental talent. Chadwick Boseman was more than an actor; he was a force of nature on screen, bringing dignity, strength, and profound humanity to every role. While he is globally celebrated for his iconic portrayal of King T’Challa in Black Panther, his body of work is rich with powerful performances that deserve the same level of recognition. As we remember his incredible legacy, let’s explore some of the roles that showcase the true depth of his remarkable skill.
The Understated Rebel: Sergeant Norman Holloway in Da 5 Bloods (2020)
In one of his final roles, Boseman plays “Stormin’” Norman, the revered, fallen squad leader of a group of Black soldiers in the Vietnam War. Appearing in flashbacks, his presence looms large over the entire film. He is the moral compass and the revolutionary heart of the group. Boseman portrays Norman not as a mythic figure, but as a grounded, intelligent leader whose influence transcends time. It’s a performance that radiates charisma and quiet power, proving he could make an indelible impact with limited screen time.
The Charismatic Athlete: Vontae Mack in Draft Day (2014)
Long before he was King of Wakanda, Boseman played Vontae Mack, a top football prospect in this fast-paced sports drama. Though a supporting character, he steals every scene he’s in. He infuses Vontae with an infectious confidence and an unwavering belief in his own worth. This role demonstrated his ability to command attention and convey ambition and star quality, offering an early glimpse of the leading man he was destined to become.
The Determined Lawyer: Thurgood Marshall in Marshall (2017)
Playing a legal giant like Thurgood Marshall is a tall order, but Boseman delivered a performance filled with swagger, intellect, and vulnerability. The film focuses on an early case in Marshall’s career, and Boseman captures the fire of a young lawyer fighting against a prejudiced system. He portrays Marshall not just as a historical icon, but as a brilliant and sometimes flawed man. His performance is a masterclass in conveying strength through conviction and sharp legal argument.
The Grieving Brother: Jacob King in Message from the King (2016)
In this gritty revenge thriller, Boseman takes on the role of Jacob King, a man from Cape Town who travels to Los Angeles to find his missing sister. This performance is a departure from his more heroic roles, showing a darker, more visceral side of his talent. He moves through the city’s underbelly with a quiet but relentless intensity. Boseman’s portrayal is largely internal, conveying a world of pain and determination through his eyes and physicality, proving he could be just as compelling in silence as he was delivering a powerful speech.
The Tragic Genius: Levee Green in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020)
In his final film role, Chadwick Boseman delivers a searing performance as Levee Green, an ambitious trumpeter with dreams of making it big. Boseman brings extraordinary emotional depth to Levee, masterfully channeling the character’s bravado, pain, and restless energy. His portrayal captures Levee’s vulnerability and simmering anger, revealing hidden scars beneath the charismatic surface. The intensity and rawness Boseman shows in this part are nothing short of breathtaking, particularly in the film’s gut-wrenching monologues and explosive confrontations. Through Levee, Boseman explores themes of hope, grief, and the lasting wounds of injustice, cementing his legacy as an actor who could illuminate even the most tragic complexity of the human soul.
A Lasting Legacy
Chadwick Boseman’s career was a testament to his dedication, versatility, and profound understanding of the human spirit. While Wakanda will forever be his kingdom, these roles highlight the immense range he possessed. He could be a leader, a fighter, a mentor, or a brother with equal conviction.
Five years on, his absence is still deeply felt, but his work continues to inspire. By exploring these performances, we not only appreciate his craft but also honor the full spectrum of his artistry. He was a gifted storyteller who gave his all to every character, leaving behind a legacy of excellence that will continue to move audiences for generations to come.
• The Important Cultural Moment That Is Black Panther
• Celebrating Black Panther – Then and Now
• “Avengers Assemble!”
• Jason Johnson on Stan Lee’s Revolutionary Legacy
• Another First for Black Panther
• “Something Special,” Indeed!
• Queer Black Panther
For The Wild Reed’s special series that remembers and celebrates Chadwick since his passing, see:
• Remembering Chadwick Boseman
• Honoring An Icon
• Chadwick Boseman’s Timeless Message to Young Voters: “You Can Turn Our Nation Around”
• Chadwick Boseman’s Final Film Role: “A Reed Instrument for Every Painful Emotion”
• Celebrating a Special Day
• Boseman on Wilson
• Chadwick Boseman and That “Heavenly Light”
• In This Time Marked By Grief
• A Bittersweet Accolade
• Chadwick Boseman Receives Posthumous NAACP Image Award
• “He Was Just Interested In the Work”
• Remembering Chadwick Boseman’s Life of Purpose
• The Political Legacy of Chadwick Boseman
• Remembering an Actor Who “Changed Everything”
• “The Perfect Send-Off”
• Heroes Are Never Really Gone
• Remembering Chadwick (2022)
Related Off-site Links:
Chadwick Boseman’s Words of Wisdom That Still Speak to Us Five Years After His Death – Shanelle Genai (The Root, August 27, 2025).
Howard University Celebrates Chadwick Boseman’s Legacy – WUSA9.com (August 27, 2025).
See the Most Iconic Moments of Chadwick Boseman’s Career 5 Years After His Death – Karen Mizoguchi and Liam Mathews (People, August 28, 2025).
Remembering Chadwick Boseman Five Years After His Death: New Documentary Planned – Jose Franco (Greenville Online, August 28, 2025).
