John Kani reflects on being mistaken as Chadwick’s real father
South African acting legend John Kani recently opened up about his cherished bond with the late Chadwick Boseman.
The actor is known for his portrayal of King T’Chaka in Black Panther.
JOHN KANI AND CHADWICK
Kani, revealed heartwarming anecdotes about their time on set and the unexpected aftermath of Boseman’s death.
Kani attended the Los Angeles premiere of Mufasa: The Lion King on 9 December. There he spoke about the close relationship he formed with Boseman, according to People.
“Here is this kid. He is incredible,” Kani recalled. “I’m with my son, Atandwa, and both of them were like my children. They called me ‘daddy’ right through.”
This fatherly connection extended beyond the set. Following Boseman’s death in 2020, Kani received an outpouring of sympathy from fans worldwide.
JOHN KANI’S SURROGATE SON
Many believed the late actor was his real son. “I got a thousand messages of deepest condolences,” Kani said.
“At first, I tried to explain, ‘No, he’s not my son, he’s my son in the movie.’ But I’ve just accepted now that he was my son.”
Kani praised Boseman’s professionalism, describing him as tireless.
“Chad worked on a schedule only he knew. He wanted a 25-hour day to make sure he said everything he needed to say,” Kani said.
BOSEMAN’S LASTING IMPACT
Their collaboration began in Captain America: Civil War (2016) before continuing in Black Panther.
Reflecting on Boseman’s lasting impact, Kani said, “He was an incredible, true professional,” according to East Coast Radio.
This connection was so profound that Kani, alongside the world, mourned deeply when Boseman died after a private four-year battle with colon cancer.
Kani isn’t the only one keeping Boseman’s memory alive.
BIRTHDAY TRIBUTES
On what would have been Boseman’s 48th birthday, actress Lupita Nyong’o shared a touching Instagram post.
She quoted theologian Henri Nouwen.
“Those you have loved deeply and who have died live on in you, not just as memories but as real presences.”
Her post ended with, “Remembering that Chadwick Boseman was born on this day. 🙏🏿👑💜.”
JOHN KANI AND MUFASA: THE LION KING
Kani reprises his role as Rafiki in Mufasa: The Lion King, according to IAfrica.
Speaking about the project, he likened the experience to rediscovering an old treasure.
“I was Rafiki in 2019 with Jon Favreau. Coming back to work with Barry Jenkins felt like putting on an old jacket.
It’s out of fashion, but it still carries an aroma that brings back memories,” Kani explained. Kani also found parallels between himself and Rafiki. “We’re both over 80,” he said with a laugh.
“I have seven children and 10 grandchildren, so talking to Blue Ivy as Kiara felt natural. I’m always talking to grandchildren.”
SOUTH AFRICAN TALENT
As Kani continues to shine in Hollywood, his South African roots remain strong.
He’s proud of the role he plays in connecting local audiences to global stories.
Kani’s enduring legacy reminds us of the power of storytelling, family—both real and chosen—and the bonds we create along the way.
His reflection on his time with Boseman is a touching tribute to a talented actor whose legacy will live on.
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE BOND BETWEEN JOHN KANI AND BOSEMAN BEING MISTAKEN FOR A REAL FATHER-SON RELATIONSHIP?
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