Fans express worry about ‘Black Panther’ star’s apparent weight loss

Fans of Chadwick Boseman, who is known for playing the roles of Jackie Robinson in “42” and the eponymous “Black Panther,” are responding with shock on social media about the slender A-lister’s appearance in a recent video.

Boseman posted a video on his Instagram account Wednesday night promoting a partnership, Operation 42, that would provide millions with protective equipment in the fight against COVID-19. Wednesday was Jackie Robinson Day, in honor of the trailblazing black Major League Baseball player.

Boseman spoke about the historic day and the efforts to support healthcare workers and protect the black community from the disease, which is affecting that community at an alarming rate.

“Operation 42 I am hearing stories of desperation from people all over the country, and we know our communities are suffering the most and urgently need help,” Boseman wrote. “Celebrating #JackieRobinsonDay with the launch of Thomas Tull’s #Operation42, a donation of 4.2 million dollars in personal protective equipment (PPE) to hospitals that service the African American Communities who have been hit the hardest by the Covid-19 pandemic. Thank you, Jackie, for refusing to accept the world as it is, for showing us that we can make a difference.”

Boseman, 42, is wearing a cap and sporting a beard in the video. Underneath the beard, his cheeks appear gaunt and sunken when compared to his typical look.

Credit: Willy Sanjuan

Credit: Willy Sanjuan

The change in appearance brought about a flood of responses on social media. Many questioned whether the weight loss was related to a role. Just weeks ago he was photographed at the NBA’s All-Star Weekend, where he also appeared quite thin. However, the concern from fans surrounded Wednesday’s Instagram post.

Some responded to the video appearance nonchalantly, noting that the actor is a vegan and has always been quite slender.