Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman dies of cancer

New Delhi : Chadwick Boseman, who was the lead actor in superhero movie Black Panther, died after four-year-long battle with colon cancer.

43-year-old actor never mentioned about his health condition publically and continued working on some of the major Hollywood movies. He was doing projects and was also taking part in "countless" operations and chemotherapy, his family said in a statement.

"It was the honor of his career to bring King T'Challa to life in 'Black Panther,'" they said.

"A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all," the statement added.

Boseman became the first black superhero to get his own standalone film in the record-breaking Marvel franchise with 2018's "Black Panther."

Soon after the news of his demise came, a shockwave passed through the Hollywood.

"The true power of @chadwickboseman was bigger than anything we saw on screen," wrote Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden.

"From the Black Panther to Jackie Robinson, he inspired generations and showed them they can be anything they want -- even super heroes."

Boseman's Marvel co-star Mark Ruffalo tweeted: "Brother, you were one of the all time greats and your greatness was only beginning. Lord love ya. Rest in power, King."

Boseman had recently appeared in Spike Lee's Vietnam War-set "Da 5 Bloods," and was set to appear in a sequel to "Black Panther" due in 2022.

"Our hearts are broken and our thoughts are with Chadwick Boseman's family. Your legacy will live on forever. Rest In Peace," wrote the official Marvel Twitter account.