Ryan Coogler, director of the acclaimed film Black Panther, shared heartfelt and humorous memories of his late friend and star, Chadwick Boseman, during an appearance on Amy Poehler’s podcast. The discussion, which took place on January 13, 2026, highlighted Boseman’s remarkable ability to bring laughter to the set, even amid personal challenges.
Behind the Laughter
Coogler reminisced about the lighter moments they shared while filming, revealing how Boseman, who passed away from colon cancer in 2020 at the age of 43, had a natural comedic side. “Have you seen Chad on SNL? He is hilarious. He played James Brown… He could do anything,” Coogler recalled. He described Boseman as “deeply, deeply funny,” especially during times when Coogler himself was under significant stress.
Even as Boseman faced his own health battle, he was known for his playful spirit. Coogler fondly remembered how Boseman would tease his fellow cast members, including Lupita Nyong’o and Danai Gurira, frequently cracking jokes and making light of their elaborate costumes and props. One humorous moment involved Coogler joking about giving Boseman a giraffe tail for a walking scene, to which Boseman humorously responded with martial arts poses.
A Lesson in Presence
Beyond the laughter, Coogler also reflected on the profound lessons he learned from Boseman. He emphasized the importance of not taking things for granted, a principle Boseman embodied throughout their friendship. “He would be the one to snap me out of that,” Coogler said, acknowledging his tendency to feel overwhelmed by his responsibilities during the production of Black Panther.
Boseman’s supportive nature shone through in one memorable conversation. He reassured Coogler, saying, “I’m not going to let anything happen to you… I’m not letting nobody fire you, bro, so please stop saying that. Relax, man. Do your work. Enjoy it.” This advice, according to Coogler, was a testament to Boseman’s ability to be present and grounded, qualities that Coogler strives to emulate.
Fans of both Coogler and Boseman expressed their appreciation for the lighter memories shared during the podcast. Comments highlighted the significance of remembering Boseman not just with sadness but with joy and laughter, reflecting the impact he had on those around him.
Coogler’s tribute to Boseman serves as a reminder of the actor’s multifaceted personality, showcasing both his talent and his ability to uplift others even in challenging circumstances. This heartfelt exchange between Coogler and Poehler not only honors Boseman’s legacy but also reinforces the value of friendship, humor, and living in the moment.
This story originally appeared in Parade on January 17, 2026, capturing a glimpse of the enduring bond between two artists.
