Chadwick Boseman's Passing Becomes Twitter's Most Liked Tweet Of All Time

[Nergal]

 

 

 

The online announcement of Chadwick Boseman’s recent passing has become Twitter’s most liked Tweet of all time. Boseman’s death from colon cancer at the age of 43 shocked the world when it was publicly revealed on August 28. Through numerous roles that both honored and elevated Black history and cinema, Boseman was a clear fan favorite. His work on Black Panther played a major part in strengthening a new direction for Black actors, as well as proving that audiences have been very eager for stories involving Black superheroes.

As news of his death spread through various forms of media, shock and sadness reached even those who hadn’t previously seen all of his films. The world continues to mourn collectively – a truly powerful result of Boseman’s impact on people of all races and genders, particularly during a time in which it’s easy to feel that chaos is everywhere. Quite often the true magnitude of a person isn’t fully realized until they’re gone. And although Boseman’s tenure as Black Panther resulted in worldwide recognition, record-breaking box office success and numerous Oscars, his death continues to prove just how far-reaching and deep his fame actually was.

As social media continues to play a major role in honoring Boseman’s life, Twitter has revealed that the Tweet from the star’s official account in which his passing was first announced has become the site’s most liked Tweet of all time. With over four hundred thousand likes to its credit, the Tweet acknowledged Boseman’s determination and dignity throughout what was a literal fight for his life. It both shocked and broke hearts globally, with many of the current tributes to Boseman’s life now also taking place on the popular social media platform.

 

Some may find it strange that the announcement of a beloved star’s death would be the most liked Tweet of all time. Liking the announcement of Boseman’s death can be misconstrued, but of course, what it really is, is a gesture of appreciation and respect for his life and courage. It will be hard for this record Tweet to be defeated, and should it ultimately be surpassed, one can only hope it won’t be as a result of yet another icon’s passing. For the time being, Boseman tributes continue to pour in from a wide range of celebrities as well as fans. Twitter is only one source of acknowledgement for Boseman’s struggle with cancer, as well as the remarkable life he lead.

Twitter has gone through numerous changes over the years, and its reputation as one of social media’s most controversial sites has also grown exponentially. Too often, perhaps, the site has been the source of intense trolling – some of which has resulted in some very troubling incidents. It’s for this reason that a Tweet honoring Boseman’s life and work is a fitting one for the most liked Tweet of all time. Forever known as the face of Black Panther, Boseman’s amazing life and courage has managed to not only unify the world during dark times, but also to conquer the often challenging world of social media in a positive way.