Harrison Ford on Monday paid tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman, whom he co-starred alongside in the celebrated 2013 film 42.
Boseman died Friday at age of 43. His death sent shockwaves through both the entertainment industry and the sports world.
In 42, Boseman played the legendary baseball player Jackie Robinson and Ford played iconic Dodgers executive Branch Rickey.
“Chadwick Boseman was as compelling, powerful and truthful as the characters he chose to play,” Ford said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. “His intelligence, personal dignity and deep commitment inspired his colleagues and elevated the stories he told. He is as much a hero as any he played. He is loved and will be deeply missed.”
The Los Angeles Dodgers held a moment of silence for Boseman on Saturday night before their game.
The Jackie Robinson Foundation posted a tribute on social media to the actor.
#ChadwickBoseman pic.twitter.com/ia6295FkZl
— Jackie Robinson Foundation (@JRFoundation) August 29, 2020
Stars and politicians, including former President Barack Obama and Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden, have also shared their devastation over the loss of Boseman.
The final tweet posted to Boseman’s Twitter account, which shared the news of his passing, has become the most-liked tweet of all time.
— Chadwick Boseman (@chadwickboseman) August 29, 2020
The social media company announced the historic news on Saturday afternoon, sharing on its official account: “Most liked tweet ever. A tribute fit for a King. #WakandaForever.”
Black Panther filmmaker Ryan Coogler on Sunday morning released a lengthy, emotional tribute to Boseman.
In a heartbreaking reveal, Coogler wrote he “wasn’t privy to the details of actor’s illness,” adding, “After his family released their statement, I realized that he was living with his illness the entire time I knew him.”
Coogler continued, “Because he was a caretaker, a leader, and a man of faith, dignity and pride, he shielded his collaborators from his suffering. He lived a beautiful life. And he made great art. Day after day, year after year. That was who he was. He was an epic firework display. I will tell stories about being there for some of the brilliant sparks till the end of my days.”