An NFT of Chadwick Boseman is available for auction now, with half of proceeds going to colon cancer research. Boseman rose to fame through his performances in films like 42 and Get on Up, but it was his role as T'Challa, aka Black Panther, in the MCU that truly made him a household name. For many, he was a cinematic hero unlike any other, and he was expected to continue his tenure in the MCU with Black Panther 2. Sadly, Boseman passed away last August after a 4-year battle with colon cancer, a struggle he kept private.
Hollywood and fans everywhere were stunned by Boseman's death, and tributes continued to pour out for days afterward. His presence still looms large, particularly since he's been in the awards season conversation for his final onscreen performance in Ma Rainey's Black Bottom. Boseman is widely expected to be the winner of tonight's Best Actor award at the Oscars, having already picked up the Golden Globe, SAG, Critics' Choice, and several others. He also received great acclaim for his role in last year's Da 5 Bloods.
3D artist Andre Oshea was commissioned to create an NFT tribute to Boseman, which will be available for auction through Tuesday, April 27. Copies of the piece will be available in the gift bags for this year's Oscar nominees. Those who wish to can bid on the NFT on Rarible, and 50% of the proceeds will go to the Colon Cancer Foundation, an organization dedicated to colon cancer awareness, prevention, and research. According to Oshea, the buy price is a whopping $1.2 million.
NFTs have been on the rise within the last few months, and it's no surprise one is now being used to honor Boseman. With a buy price as high as $1.2 million, though, it remains to be seen what heights the auction could reach within the next couple of days. Reactions to the NFT have been mixed on social media, with some questioning how genuine a tribute this really is. Nevertheless, the auction is officially open.
With Black Panther 2 still moving forward at Marvel Studios, there will be a chance to honor his legacy as the MCU character. With the Oscars, though, Boseman can be remembered for his entire career, even beyond his Ma Rainey's Black Bottom performance. It's a small consolation prize, as Boseman himself deserved to be here for this moment. He was a special actor, and fans will be mourning and paying tribute to him for a long time. Boseman will certainly never be forgotten.
Source: Andre Oshea, Rarible