Epic Games has added a touching tribute to Chadwick Boseman in Fortnite, following the iconic Black Panther star's passing last Friday, aged just 43. Now, a large Black Panther statue has been erected in the corner of the battle royale's map, just one week into the game's new Marvel season of content.
It's likely that Epic Games had always intended to include multiple references to Black Panther in this Marvel-themed season, but the tragic loss of Boseman may have inspired the developer to add it to the map sooner rather than later. Sure enough, players seem grateful of the chance to jump into Fortnite and head to the statue to pay their respects to the man who introduced King T'Challa to the world.
Fans are also calling for a Black Panther skin to be made available in-game, with proceeds going to charity. A fantastic idea, especially given the multitude of Marvel heroes already available in-game. I would imagine King T'Challa's inclusion in Fortnite is only a matter of time... but whether or not any kind of charity ends up being involved is entirely down to Epic.
Advert
Boseman's family confirmed the actor's passing last week. In a statement posted to his Twitter, they revealed he had been diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016. He'd been battling with the illness for the last four years as it progressed to stage IV - all while continuing to bring his very best to multiple films. Of all these projects, his most well-remembered will no doubt be the game-changing Black Panther, which released in 2018 to widespread critical acclaim.
While the Black Panther statue in Fortnite might not intentionally tie into the MCU incarnation of the hero, it's fair to say that its inclusion in the game will serve as a fitting and prominent reminder of Boseman and everything he brought to the role. Be sure to pay it a visit next time you drop in the game.
Featured Image Credit: Epic Games/Marvel StudiosTopics: epic games, Fortnite, Marvel
