Ryan Coogler, the director of “Black Panther,” recently shared how the passing of actor Chadwick Boseman deeply affected him and Michael B. Jordan. Coogler directed the hit 2018 film, which starred Boseman as T’Challa, a king of Wakanda. The story revolved around T’Challa’s journey to take his rightful place as king while facing the threat posed by Erik Killmonger, played by Jordan.
Sadly, Boseman passed away from colon cancer in August 2020 at the age of 43. Coogler, in a recent interview, reflected on the profound impact Boseman’s loss had on Jordan. He noted that Jordan took the news particularly hard, revealing that it was an emotional topic he hadn’t discussed publicly until his recent promotional tour for “Sinners,” a new project featuring Jordan.
Recalling their time together, Coogler described Boseman as an exemplary figure, saying, “He was a fully baked man from the South” and a true gentleman. Coogler emphasized that Boseman served as a mentor to both him and Jordan through his actions and character. He praised Boseman’s patience and commitment to his craft, sharing that Boseman taught them the importance of taking their time and staying true to their roles.
Coogler also recounted an amusing incident during the filming of “Black Panther” when a Disney executive was surprised by Boseman’s dedication. The actor remained in character, speaking in T’Challa’s accent long after filming had paused, which showcased his incredible commitment to his work.
The influence Boseman had on both Coogler and Jordan continues to resonate as they work on new projects. In “Sinners,” Jordan portrays twin brothers who return to their hometown seeking a fresh start, only to confront bigger challenges than expected. The film is set to hit theaters on April 18.
Coogler’s heartfelt memories of Boseman serve as a reminder of the legacy the late actor left behind—one built on hard work, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to excellence in the arts.
