Chadwick Boseman secretly married girlfriend before death

Chadwick Boseman secretly married his girlfriend Taylor Simone Ledward before his tragic death at the age of just 43.

The actor proposed in October 2019 after the pair had reportedly been together for four years, but he famously kept their relationship extremely private.

But in the statement released by his family announcing his death, 29-year-old Taylor was described as his ‘wife’.

“It was the honour of his career to bring King T’Challa to life in Black Panther,” the statement read. “He died in his home, with his wife and family by his side.”

Taylor and Chadwick made their red carpet debut as a couple in January 2019 at the SAG Awards and she was by his side throughout the awards season as he promoted Black Panther.

Taylor - who is a singer - was last pictured with Chadwick in February at the 69th NBA All-Star Game in Chicago.

Chadwick Boseman, who also played Black icons Jackie Robinson and James Brown before finding fame as the regal Black Panther in the Marvel cinematic universe, died on Friday after a lengthy battle with cancer.

He was diagnosed with stage three colon cancer four years ago.

“A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you many of the films you have come to love so much,” his family said in the statement.

Tributes have flooded in, including a post from Josh Gad, who shared his moving final messages from Chadwick Boseman on Twitter.

“Breaking my twitter silence to share some beauty. This was one of my final texts from the brilliant & once-in-lifetime talent, @chadwickboseman - take this in and celebrate life.”

In the messages, Chadwick urged Josh to appreciate life and take in nature and what it can offer.

“But now that the rain has stopped and today's storm has cleared, I urge you to go outside and take a DEEP breath,” Chadwick wrote.

“We should take advantage of every moment we can to enjoy the simplicity of God's creation, whether it be clear skies and sun or clouded over with gloom.”

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