Netflix cancels screening of Chadwick Boseman’s final film, ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’

Boseman tragically died on Friday, 28 August after a four year battle with Colon cancer.

Deadline is reporting that the event was scheduled to hold on Monday, 31 August and feature a conversation with Chadwick’s co-star Viola Davis and Tony-winning director George C. Wolfe.

The screening was also going to feature an exclusive first look and footage presentation.

Netflix in a statement said, “We are heartbroken over today’s news of the passing of Chadwick Boseman, a ‘true fighter’ as his family called him in their poignant tribute. This is an incredible loss. We are cancelling Monday’s preview event of Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. Please join us in sending your thoughts to his family and loved ones.”

Ted Sarandos, Netflix Co-CEO and Chief Content Officer, said: “Chadwick was a superhero on screen and in life, and it’s impossible to imagine working at the level he has while valiantly battling his illness. His legacy as a person and an artist will inspire millions. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family during this difficult time.”

Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom marks the first time that Chadwick Boseman will appear in a film with Denzel Washington who famously paid for his summer acting class at British Academy of Dramatic Acting in Oxford.

Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is based on the 1982 August Wilson play and follows ‘The Mother of Blues’, played by Fences Oscar winner Viola Davis, who contends with her ambitious horn player and the white management determined to control her in Chicago 1927.

The film also stars Colman Domingo, Glynn Turman, Michael Potts, Taylour Paige and Dusan Brown co-star alongside Grammy winner Branford Marsalis’ score.