If one were to sit down one evening and watch an action movie, the probability of that person watching a movie with a Caucasian lead actor is high. African-American lead actors are a rarity, but one man has aimed to break that barrier: Chadwick Boseman.

Born on November 22nd, 1977, Boseman was raised in Anderson, South Carolina. While in high school, he wrote his own play named Crossroads and released it after a friend passed away.

Realizing his own dreams and goals,  Boseman enrolled into college at Howard University; ultimately graduating with a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts in directing. Phylicia Rashad (played Clair Huxtable on The Cosby Show) was one of Boseman’s teachers and became a mentor of his. Helping raise funds for Boseman and fellow students to attend a summer program at Oxford, Rashad helped pave the way for Boseman to become an even more well-rounded performer.

After returning from Oxford, Boseman chose to enter the movie business as soon as possible. Gaining experience in directing short films such as “Blood Over a Broken Pawn” (2008) and “Heaven” (2012). Boseman has starred in many leading roles including 42 (2012), Get on Up (2013), and Black Panther (2018) to name a few.

Undoubtedly, Boseman is most known for his appearances as Marvel’s Black Panther. Since his childhood, Boseman dreamt of starring as Wakanda’s hero. While Boseman was in Europe on the red carpet for “Get On Up”, Marvel Studios was brainstorming ideas for the upcoming film: “Captain America: Civil War”. One thing led to another, and when the idea of introducing the Black Panther into the series, their first pick was Chadwick Boseman. As soon as he found out he was wanted, he took the role without hesitation. “Civil War” as a whole was well received by fans, with a 91% rating from movie critic website Rotten Tomatoes.

Viewers desired to see more of Boseman; with his fast-paced combat style and charisma, what was not to like about Marvel’s newest addition? Thus, in 2016 Marvel had announced Boseman was back and better than ever, this time in his own film; Black Panther. Fans were astonished at the idea that the movie was set to feature an all-black cast. Masses hyped up the movie’s release and it became Marvel’s highest grossing film in its first week of release. Returning in Avengers: Infinity War, Boseman gave an emotional performance for viewers in what is considered the biggest cross-over film of all time.

By becoming the Black Panther, Boseman has become nothing short of a superhero himself. Establishing himself as an outstanding lead actor, Boseman has helped create a road for many others to follow in hope of becoming the next big star.