Viola Davis Reflects on Judging Chadwick Boseman Before His Death

During the filming of the 2020 Netflix drama 'Ma Rainey's Black Bottom,' Viola Davis observed Chadwick Boseman receiving attentive care from his then-girlfriend (now wife), Taylor Simone Ledward, and his makeup artist. This included back rubs and meditative music. In a recent interview with *The Times*, Davis confessed, "There was a part of me that was a little judgmental — why do you need all that? Little did I know that they were doing it because he was dying."

Boseman had kept his four-year battle with colon cancer intensely private, a decision that extended to his colleagues on what would tragically be his final film. His death in August 2020, just months before the film's release, sent shockwaves through Hollywood and the world.

Davis has since spoken extensively about her respect for Boseman. In 2020, she told *Yahoo Entertainment* she 'broke down' upon learning of his death but emphasized the quality over quantity of his life, stating, "he was always living in the moment, squeezing out every bit of life." She told *The Guardian* that Boseman would be remembered as a 'hero,' not just for his iconic role as Black Panther, but for his profound 'authenticity.' She further elaborated to Oprah Winfrey that Boseman seemed more focused on being a 'really great artist' than a 'movie star.'

George C. Wolfe, the film's director, echoed sentiments of admiration, calling the experience of working with Boseman 'empowering' despite the underlying sadness.

Why did Viola Davis initially feel judgmental towards Chadwick Boseman on set?

Davis observed Boseman receiving extra care like back rubs and meditative music. Unaware that he was terminally ill with cancer, she questioned the necessity of this attention.

Did Chadwick Boseman's colleagues know he was sick during filming?

No, Chadwick Boseman kept his battle with colon cancer private from the public and his colleagues, including those on the set of 'Ma Rainey's Black Bottom.'

What movie were they filming?

They were filming 'Ma Rainey's Black Bottom,' which was released on Netflix in late 2020, a few months after Boseman's passing.

Viola Davis's honesty offers a valuable perspective on judgment and empathy. What are your thoughts on judging others without knowing their struggles? Let us know!

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