Earlier this weekend came the tragic news that actor Chadwick Boseman had passed away at the age of 43 after a four-year battle with colon cancer. The performer is well-known for his transformative roles as Jackie Robinson and James Brown in biopics 42 and Get On Up, but far and away Boseman’s most iconic portrayal is that of King T’Challa in Marvel Studios’ celebrated superhero film Black Panther. In tribute to the beloved actor’s life, broadcast network ABC is now airing the entirety of Black Panther without commercial interruption.

Premiering August 30th, Black Panther is broadcasting from 8 p.m. / 7 p.m. CT and will continue uninterrupted until 10:20 p.m. / 9:20 p.m. CT. According to ABC, the film’s run will be followed by an ABC News special titled “Chadwick Boseman – A Tribute for a King,” giving prominence to the actor’s “storied life, legacy and career, and the cultural imprint he made on- and off-screen.” The program is said to feature tributes from “celebrities, political figures and fans across the world,” including words from Boseman’s co-stars and loved ones, as well as insight into the disease he battled during the most successful years of his career.

Tonight, ABC will celebrate the legacy of Chadwick Boseman with a special presentation of Marvel Studios’ Black Panther followed by the ABC News Special: Chadwick Boseman – A Tribute for a King. It all starts tonight at 8/7c on ABC. pic.twitter.com/doWIWAX67o

— Marvel Studios (@MarvelStudios) August 30, 2020

Released back in 2018, Black Panther earned acclaim from critics and audiences for its story, performances, directing, and production design – the last of which earned the film an Academy Award in 2019. A widely-viewed platform like ABC airing the beloved film without commercials is surely a fitting way to bring more attention to Chadwick Boseman’s work in light of his recent passing. Director Ryan Coogler recently issued a statement about his departed colleague, recalling his generous interactions with Boseman as well as the actor’s passion for the world of Black Panther.

He was a caretaker, a leader, and a man of faith, dignity and pride, he shielded his collaborators from his suffering. He lived a beautiful life. And he made great art. Day after day, year after year. That was who he was. He was an epic firework display. I will tell stories about being there for some of the brilliant sparks till the end of my days. What an incredible mark he’s left for us.”

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