Cheadle added: “Each time he stepped on the set, he inspired and influenced everyone there, and with every role he created a new legion of fans. He had an incredible power to unify people in their love for his work and their respect for him as a person. The way he lived his life united people behind a higher purpose, and that will be his legacy.”
Cheadle also noted that while Boseman is best known for his role as Black Panther, the actor also made his mark portraying real-life luminaries Thurgood Marshall (in Marshall), James Brown (in Get on Up) and Jackie Robinson (in 42).
“Chadwick will forever be known as the Black Panther, but he also painted incredibly powerful portrayals of iconic and influential real men who changed the world,” Cheadle said, adding: “He brought humanity and truth to the portrayal of people that felt larger than life, and he did it in a way that honored their memories.”
Downey also noted that Boseman did many philanthropic works and helped out others also battling cancer.
Watch their tribute below.
The special, which aired in lieu of the MTV Movie & TV Awards due to the pandemic, honored several other stars, including Kevin Bacon, Drew Barrymore, Kristen Bell, Selma Blair, Jamie Lee Curtis, Gal Gadot, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Kevin Hart, Adam Sandler, Jason Segel and Cobra Kai star William Zabka.
An announcement at the end of the telecast revealed that the traditional awards show will return in May.
This article originally appeared in THR.com.
