In a heartfelt revelation, Viola Davis opened up about her initial judgments of Chadwick Boseman during the filming of "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom," a project that would become his final performance. Unbeknownst to her at the time, the late actor was struggling with a severe health battle that would ultimately take his life.

In an interview with *The Times*, released on Friday, Davis candidly discussed the dynamics on set during the summer of 2019. While filming the critically acclaimed movie, based on August Wilson's iconic play, she noticed Boseman’s girlfriend and make-up artist providing him special attention—rubbing his back and playing soothing music. Davis initially viewed this behavior with a degree of skepticism, questioning why someone would need such extensive care during production.

Reflecting on her feelings at the time, Davis admitted, “There was a part of me that was a little judgmental — why do you need all that? Little did I know that they were doing it because he was dying.” Her comments highlight the common tendency to misinterpret situations without the full context, emphasizing the often unseen struggles that people endure.

Chadwick Boseman passed away on August 28, 2020, just a year after filming wrapped, at the young age of 43. His family later revealed that he had been diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2016, a battle he fought heroically as the disease progressed to stage IV.

Viola recalls her admiration for Boseman, stating that he was not only a remarkable talent but also an artist dedicated to his craft above all else. Months after his passing, she described him as a "beautiful man" whose unwavering commitment to acting was rare in today's industry. He was known to have maintained the same agent throughout his career, reflecting his loyalty and dedication.

As we remember the legacy of Chadwick Boseman, his incredible work and the impact he had on those around him serve as a poignant reminder of the struggles many face under the surface. Davis' story sheds light on the importance of empathy and understanding the battles others may be enduring, particularly in the often demanding world of entertainment.