hadwick Boseman, the late Black Panther star and all-round legend, once gave a tribute to Denzel Washington so heartfelt, it deserves its own Oscar.
In a speech that’s been watched millions of times, Boseman revealed that he literally wouldn’t have had a career without Washington. And we mean that literally. Back when Boseman was a broke drama student at Howard University, he got accepted into a prestigious summer acting program at Oxford – but there was one problem: he couldn’t afford it.
Enter Denzel.
Without even knowing Boseman personally, Washington stepped in and quietly paid for his tuition. Yep, the Hollywood icon covered the costs behind the scenes, expecting absolutely nothing in return.
Years later, at the American Film Institute (AFI) Awards, Boseman stood on stage and told the world what Washington had done. And he did it with the kind of grace and gratitude that would melt even the coldest hearts.
“There is no Black Panther without Denzel Washington,” Boseman said, eyes shining. “And not just because of me, but my whole cast – that generation – stands on your shoulders.”
He went on to say that Washington’s generosity didn’t just fund his studies – it sent a message. That someone believed in him. That someone was willing to invest in his potential when the industry hadn’t even looked his way yet.
Boseman’s tribute hit extra hard because it was about more than just money. It was about legacy. About Black excellence. About one great lifting up another – and how that ripple can change lives.
Sadly, Boseman passed away in 2020 after a private battle with colon cancer. But moments like this remind us why he meant so much to so many.
And if you didn’t love Denzel Washington already, well… you do now.
True kings, both of them. 👑