Actor Chadwick Boseman, who played Black icons Jackie Robinson and James Brown before finding fame as the regal Black Panther in the Marvel cinematic universe, died at 43 on Friday after a four-year battle with colon cancer, his representative said. 

Boseman died at his home in the Los Angeles area with his wife and family by his side, his publicist Nicki Fioravante said, according to The Associated Press.

Boseman was diagnosed with colon cancer four years ago, his family said in a statement. 

"It is with immeasurable grief that we confirm the passing of Chadwick Boseman," reads the statement posted on Twitter.

"A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you many of the films you have come to love so much," his family said. 

"From Marshall to Da 5 Bloods, August Wilson's Ma Rainey's Black Bottom and several more – all were filmed during and between countless surgeries and chemotherapy. It was the honor of his career to bring King T'Challa to life in Black Panther."

Embraced by global audiences, "Black Panther" became the second highest grossing movie at box offices worldwide in 2018, heralded for its vibrant celebration of African culture and applauded as a milestone for racial diversity in Hollywood. 

The film was nominated for six Oscars, including best picture. It won three Academy Awards: best original score, best costume design and best production design. It also won the top Screen Actors Guild award that year for best movie ensemble.

In June, Boseman joined more than 300 Black actors and filmmakers who signed an open letter urging Hollywood to steer away from entertainment glorifying police brutality and corruption and to invest in anti-racist content.

(With input from AP& Reuters)