Devastated Hollywood stars share shock and disbelief at Chadwick Boseman’s death

Hollywood stars and directors have been united in grief following the shock death of Chadwick Boseman who lost a secret four year battle with cancer on Friday.

The Black Panther actor died aged 43, surrounded by family, following a secret battle with the disease – which he had not disclosed prior to his death.

News of the heartthrob’s death was announced on Friday with a spokesperson confirming the sad news to Mirror online, while a statement gave details of his death on Instagram.

Captain America and Avengers co-star, Don Cheadle, was one of the first to express his sadness.

Sharing a photo of himself with the late actor, Don – who plays James “Rhodey” Rhodes / War Machine in the Marvel films – tweeted: “i will miss you, birthday brother. you were always light and love to me. my god … forever and ever.”

Mark Ruffalo – who plays the Incredible Hulk – tweeted: “All I have to say is the tragedies amassing this year have only been made more profound by the loss of #ChadwickBoseman. What a man, and what an immense talent. Brother, you were one of the all time greats and your greatness was only beginning. Lord love ya. Rest in power, King.”

While Brie Larson – who plays Carol Danvers, aka Captain Marvel – shared a photo of herself with Chadwick alongside a broken heart emoji.

While the official Marvel Studios account tweeted: “Our hearts are broken and our thoughts are with Chadwick Boseman’s family. Your legacy will live on forever. Rest In Peace.”

Guardians of the Galaxy and Avengers star Zoe Saldana expressed her shock – sharing a photo of Chadwick on Instagram alongside a heartfelt tribute.

She wrote: “Rest in Power King T’Challa. My heart is so heavy right now. Your passing has hit me hard.

“I will tell my sons about you forever. You were one of the classiest men I have ever met in my life.

“It was an honor to have shared minutes with you on screen and to have crossed paths with you during press. Though our acquaintance was light you always left a lasting impression because of your energy, poise and gentle manner.

“May the Universe deliver you to your promise land brother.”

Many others in Hollywood expressed their shock over Chadwick’s death.

Director Matthew A Cherry very poignantly paid tribute to Chadwick’s strength in the face of his struggles.

Noting the number of action films the star has made over the past four years, he tweeted: “Chadwick was really out here shooting all of these huge action movies while fighting stage 4 colon cancer. Man. Strong isn’t even the word.”