Dedication

      When we started writing this book, Chadwick Boseman was still with us. None of us knew what he was going through, making his death all the more tragic. Like the loss of many whose lives are cut short, Boseman’s loss leaves a hole that can never be filled, as the following posts attest:

      “When I was around Chadwick, I wanted to be better, less petty, more purposeful … He was fueled by love, not fear. He moved quietly, deliberately and without imposing himself or his ideals on others. And yet he also made damn sure that his life meant something. He was unwavering about that. He cared so deeply about humanity, about Black people, about his people. He activated our pride. By pushing through and working with such high purpose in the films he chose to commit to, Chadwick has made the infinite his home.”

      – Lupita Nyong’o, Tweet, September 8, 2020

      “My entire job as Okoye was to respect and protect a king. Honor his leadership. Chadwick made that job profoundly easy. He was the epitome of kindness, elegance, diligence and grace. On many an occasion I would think how thankful I was that he was the leading man I was working closely with. A true class act. And so perfectly equipped to take on the responsibility of leading the franchise that changed everything for Black representation.”

      – Danai Guriria, Instagram, August 30, 2020

      “In African cultures we often refer to loved ones that have passed on as ancestors. Sometimes you are genetically related. Sometimes you are not. I had the privilege of directing scenes of Chad’s character, T’Challa, communicating with the ancestors of Wakanda. We were in Atlanta, in an abandoned warehouse, with bluescreens, and massive movie lights, but Chad’s performance made it feel real. I think it was because from the time that I met him, the ancestors spoke through him. It’s no secret to me now how he was able to skillfully portray some of our most notable ones. I had no doubt that he would live on and continue to bless us with more. But it is with a heavy heart and a sense of deep gratitude to have ever been in his presence, that I have to reckon with the fact that Chad is an ancestor now. And I know that he will watch over us, until we meet again.”

      – Ryan Coogler, from a statement issued on August 30, 2020

      “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. […] 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. […] I’m more aware now than ever that the 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.”

      – Michael B. Jordan, Instagram, August 31, 2020

      “When he listened, he gave you his full attention. He had such grace, a regal quality – it’s no coincidence he was chosen to play the king of a nation, Wakanda, in Black Panther. He taught me the power of stillness: knowing who you are and letting that speak for you. No matter how many early morning calls or events he had to get to, I never saw him rush. Every second was important, not to be wasted. He always made you feel at ease. And I loved his laugh. It was so beautiful, you always knew when he was in the room.”

      – Letitia Wright, excerpt from “A King Among Men,” British Vogue, March 15, 2021

      Of course, we didn’t know Chadwick personally, so our sentiments are those of fans who admired his work, his character, his smile, his energy, and the regal nature that permeated his life and the characters he embodied. He was undoubtedly a true hero, and losing Chadwick midway through the production of this book was a gut punch to all of us. We know that this is only a book. Yet, in putting it together, it felt like we’d lost a member of our team and our family. Thus, to honor Chadwick and especially his role as T’Challa and Black Panther, we dedicate this volume to his memory.

Rest in peace Chadwick … and thank you for setting the example for what a real hero looks like – on screen and off.

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