Following the news that actor Chadwick Boseman passed away after a battle with colon cancer, condolences from family, friends and fans poured in all over social media, and with the VMAs taking place this weekend, MTV dedicated the annual awards show to the late actor.
Just before the show kicked off, the host of the evening, Keke Palmer said, "Before we get into the music tonight, we need to dedicate the time to talk about the devastating loss of Chadwick Boseman, an actor whose talent is a true inspiration to all the fans he touched and everyone he encountered. We dedicate tonight’s show to a man whose spirit touched so many. He is a true spirit, not just onscreen but in everything he did. His impact lives forever."
MTV also tweeted, "RIP Chadwick Boseman. Tonight's #VMAs is dedicated to him," and during the show played back Boseman accepting an MTV Movie Award in 2018 for Black Panther. The throwback clip began with "The world needs more superheroes" and ended with "Rest in power."
Boseman passed away on August 28th, the sad news being revealed in a statement posted to the actor's official Twitter account. The message said:
"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 4 years as it's 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. The family thanks you for your love and prayers, and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time."
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