Lupita Nyong’o has shared her continued grief over the loss of her Black Panther co-star, Chadwick Boseman, who passed away from colon cancer at 43.
Reflecting on the impact of his absence, Lupita described grief as “love with no place to put it,” acknowledging that she “just lives with it.”
During a panel at the BFI London Film Festival on October 14, she spoke about watching a clip of her and Boseman together, revealing, “I don’t run away from the tears… that experience will never be separate from the love that was formed.”
Her remarks follow a heartfelt tribute she posted on Instagram for the fourth anniversary of Chadwick’s death, where she quoted, “Grief never ends… but it changes.” She added her own words, “Remembering Chadwick Boseman. Forever.”
Boseman’s passing deeply affected the production of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Director Ryan Coogler and Marvel Studios’ Kevin Feige emphasised that his legacy inspired the film’s somber tone. Coogler wore a necklace with Boseman’s photo daily during filming as a tribute. The cast, including Angela Bassett and Danai Gurira, also honoured his memory.
Bassett shared that filming in the throne room felt different without him, noting the “reverence” Chadwick brought to the role. Gurira described her time on set as a healing journey, remembering Boseman’s dedication to excellence and kindness toward others.
Lupita’s touching reflections illustrate the enduring impact of Boseman’s life and legacy, both on screen and in the hearts of those who worked closely with him.
