Chadwick Boseman’s final film Ma Rainey’s has screening cancelled by Netflix

A preview screening of Chadwick Boseman’s final film Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom has been cancelled by Netflix.

The streaming giant was due to hold a virtual preview event for the film with star Viola Davis and director George C Wolfe on Monday, which would have premiered new footage and seen them take part in a Q&A.

Chadwick was not due to appear at the event but it has now been postponed due to his sad death last week.

The Black Panther star died at the age of 43 following a secret four-year battle with colon cancer, during which he continued making films including Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.

Based on the play of the same name by August Wilson, the film follows the fiery and dramatic events over the course of an afternoon recording session in 1920s Chicago by blues singer Ma Rainey (Davis).

Chadwick Boseman stars as trumpeter Levee, who is keen to make his mark and impress Ma’s girlfriend, prompting him to fan the flames of underlying tensions in the studio.

The film also stars Glynn Turman, Colman Domingo, and Michael Potts, while being produced by Oscar winner and Chadwick’s close friend and mentor Denzel Washington.

Following Chadwick’s death last week, Viola Davis paid tribute to her late co-star.

Viola tweeted: “Chadwick…..no words to express my devastation of losing you. Your talent, your spirit, your heart, your authenticity……..It was an honor working beside you, getting to know you….Rest well prince…May flights of angels sing thee to thy heavenly rest. I love you!”

Meanwhile, Denzel told The Hollywood Reporter: ‘He was a gentle soul and a brilliant artist, who will stay with us for eternity through his iconic performances over his short yet illustrious career.

“God bless Chadwick Boseman.”

According to Variety, “there was no immediate word from Netflix about whether Boseman’s death would impact its plans for the release”.

In the official statement addressing Chadwick’s death, the tweet – which is now the most-liked tweet of all time – reads: “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.

“A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you many of the films you have come to love so much. 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.

“It was the honor of his career to bring King T’Challa to life in Black Panther. He died in his home, with his wife and family by his side.”

Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom will be released on Netflix later this year.