Viola Davis has opened up about her experience working alongside Chadwick Boseman during the filming of Netflix’s ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,’ unknowingly witnessing the late actor’s final performance as he silently battled cancer. In a candid interview with The Times published on Friday, the EGOT-winning actress admitted she had been judgmental about some of Boseman’s on-set needs without realizing the gravity of his condition.
Davis recalled that she, like many people around the world, was unaware of Boseman’s health struggles. While shooting the 2020 film based on August Wilson’s seminal play, she noticed Boseman receiving special care and attention. His girlfriend and make-up artist would rub his back and play meditative music for him on set — gestures that puzzled her at the time.
“There was a part of me that was a little judgmental — why do you need all that? Little did I know that they were doing it because he was dying,” Viola admitted, reflecting on her assumptions about Boseman’s seemingly unusual pampering.
The filming of ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ took place in the summer of 2019, a period during which Boseman was quietly fighting a fierce and exhausting battle with colon cancer. Tragically, just about a year after production wrapped, Boseman passed away on August 28, 2020, at the age of 43. His death shocked the world, especially since most of his colleagues and fans were unaware of his four-year struggle with the disease.
Boseman was first diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016. Over the years, the disease progressed to stage IV, but the beloved actor continued to work through the pain and treatment, delivering powerful performances that have since become legendary. ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,’ where he portrayed the ambitious, talented musician Levee Green, would be his final role — one that would earn him posthumous nominations and accolades.
Viola Davis previously spoke highly of Boseman’s dedication and character, describing him as “a beautiful man and artist who had a quality that very few have today, whether young or old, which is a total commitment to the art form of acting. Regardless of ego, regardless of any of it.”
She also noted how Boseman remained loyal to his roots throughout his career, retaining the same agent he started with from the beginning. Such loyalty and commitment are traits Davis continues to admire about her co-star.
Chadwick Boseman’s death sent shockwaves throughout Hollywood and beyond. He had achieved immense success through iconic roles such as T’Challa in ‘Black Panther,’ Jackie Robinson in ’42,’ and James Brown in ‘Get on Up.’ His performance in ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ was particularly moving, as many now view it as a reflection of his own struggles with mortality.
His portrayal of Levee Green, a young musician yearning for his big break while grappling with trauma and frustration, was lauded by critics and audiences alike. The film, directed by George C. Wolfe and produced by Denzel Washington, was released on Netflix on December 18, 2020, four months after Boseman’s passing.
In the wake of his death, Boseman’s family revealed his diagnosis and shared how the actor had fought valiantly while maintaining his privacy. Despite undergoing surgeries and chemotherapy, he continued to deliver brilliant performances, inspiring countless fans and fellow actors.
Viola Davis’s reflection on her time working with Boseman highlights not only her own personal regret but also the immense respect she continues to hold for him. Her honesty about her initial judgments offers a poignant reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding — especially when dealing with others whose battles are not always visible.
As audiences continue to celebrate Chadwick Boseman’s legacy, his final performance in ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ remains a testament to his resilience, talent, and unwavering dedication to his craft.
Boseman’s impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable, and his commitment to his art remains an inspiration to millions. As the industry continues to evolve, his legacy endures — a brilliant star whose light was dimmed far too soon but will never be forgotten.
