Chadwick Boseman could be a posthumous Oscar nominee

Boseman passed away last August after a lengthy battle with colon cancer

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The “In Memoriam” segment is always the most somber part of the Oscars ceremony, and the upcoming Academy Awards may be particularly sorrowful.

In addition to the COVID-19 pandemic that ravaged the country and the film industry, Hollywood lost a number prominent actors.

With seven posthumous film industry professionals in the running for Academy recognition in several categories, there will be a larger than usual number of individuals to say goodbye to.

Read More: First look at Chadwick Boseman in final film ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’

The most notable in that group is Chadwick Boseman, who may be in the running for his role in the upcoming film, “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.” Directed by George C. Wolfe, the film is scheduled for release on December 18.

Chadwick Boseman attends the 91st Annual Academy Awards at Hollywood and Highland on February 24, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images)

Early buzz says that Boseman gives a stellar performance and could be an Oscar contender for either the lead or supporting actor category.

The film is distributed by Netflix, and although the streaming platform has not yet to confirm Boseman’s category placement, a source close to the awards campaign says a supporting actor run is the most likely trajectory, according to Variety.

“Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” is set during an intense recording session 1920’s Chicago as Ma Rainey battles her manager and producer and an ambitious trumpeter, played by Boseman, over control of her music. The film also stars Viola Davis in the title role and is based on the August Wilson play.

Read More: First look at Chadwick Boseman in final film ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’

Boseman, who passed away last August after a lengthy battle with colon cancer will have another opportunity for acknowledgment from the Academy for his role as Stormin’ Norman in Spike Lee‘s latest joint, “Da 5 Bloods.”

The late actor’s co-star, Delroy Lindo, will campaign for a best actor nomination.

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