Michael B. Jordan remembers his 'Black Panther' costar Chadwick Boseman: 'You are my big brother'
- Michael B. Jordan, who played Erik Killmonger in "Black Panther," remembers his costar and friend Chadwick Boseman in a poetic tribute shared to Instagram Monday.
- Boseman died Friday of cancer at the age of 43.
- Jordan and Boseman knew each other for years. They both were cast as Reggie Montgomery on ABC's long-running soap opera "All My Children."
- "You are my big brother, but I never fully got a chance to tell you, or to truly give you your flowers while you were here," Jordan wrote on social media.
Actor Michael B. Jordan remembers his friend and "Black Panther" costar Chadwick Boseman as a legend and hero in a poetic tribute.
"I've been trying to find the words, but nothing comes close to how I feel," Jordan wrote in a social media post Monday. "I wish we had more time."
Boseman died Friday of colon cancer at the age of 43. The news came as a shock to many who weren't aware he was privately battling the illness in between a rigorous movie schedule.
Jordan and Boseman starred opposite one another in Marvel's 2018 record-breaking film as cousins. Jordan played the film's villain, Erik Killmonger. Boseman starred as King T'Challa.
The reunion was years in the making and a full circle moment for both actors.
The two met years prior on ABC's soap opera "All My Children." Boseman played the first iteration of Reggie Porter Montgomery in 2003 before he was presumably fired after questioning stereotypes connected to the role.
Jordan took over the role and the two stayed in touch.
"Since nearly the beginning of my career, starting with 'All My Children' when I was 16 years old you paved the way for me," wrote Jordan. "You showed me how to be better, honor purpose, and create legacy. And whether you've known it or not…I've been watching, learning and constantly motivated by your greatness."
Though 10 years apart, it's easy to see their playful and loving relationship captured over the years.
Throughout his message, Jordan repeated that he wished the two had more time together. The "Creed" and "Fruitvale Station" actor shared five photos of him and Boseman smiling and laughing together.
Like many others, Jordan said it's been difficult to find the words to honor Boseman.
"The thing that hurts the most is that I now understand how much of a legend and hero YOU are," wrote Jordan. "Through it all, you never lost sight of what you loved most. You cared about your family, your friends, your craft, your spirit. You cared about the kids, the community, our culture and humanity. You cared about me."
"You are my big brother, but I never fully got a chance to tell you, or to truly give you your flowers while you were here," Jordan added.
Jordan is one of many "Black Panther" stars who remembers Boseman's generosity, humor, and his big heart. Angela Bassett, Forest Whitaker, and director Ryan Coogler are among the many who have paid tribute to Boseman.
You can read Jordan's full message below:
I've been trying to find the words, but nothing comes close to how I feel. I've been reflecting on every moment, every conversation, every laugh, every disagreement, every hug…everything.
I wish we had more time.
One of the last times we spoke, you said we were forever linked , and now the truth of that means more to me than ever. Since nearly the beginning of my career, starting with All My Children when I was 16 years old you paved the way for me. You showed me how to be better, honor purpose, and create legacy. And whether you've known it or not…I've been watching, learning and constantly motivated by your greatness.
I wish we had more time.
Everything you've given the world … the legends and heroes that you've shown us we are … will live on forever. But the thing that hurts the most is that I now understand how much of a legend and hero YOU are. Through it all, you never lost sight of what you loved most. You cared about your family, your friends, your craft, your spirit. You cared about the kids, the community, our culture and humanity. You cared about me. You are my big brother, but I never fully got a chance to tell you, or to truly give you your flowers while you were here.
I wish we had more time.
I'm more aware now than ever that time is short with people we love and admire. I'm gonna miss your honesty, your generosity, your sense of humor, and incredible gifts. I'll miss the gift of sharing space with you in scenes. I'm dedicating the rest of my days to live the way you did. With grace, courage, and no regrets. "Is this your king!?" Yes . he . is! Rest In Power Brother.
You can read more of the tributes from Boseman's extended Marvel and Disney family here.