‘I’m Gonna Get Fired.’ Ryan Coogler Was So ‘Stressed’ Filming Black Panther. How Chadwick Boseman Supported Him

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Ryan Coogler is currently one of the most sought-after directors in Hollywood. After the huge success of his film Sinners, his career is at an all-time high. He says he’s grateful for this moment, and credits his Black Panther star, Chadwick Boseman, with helping him appreciate it. Interestingly, Coogler shared that he often worried about losing his job while gaining recognition.

Ryan Coogler discussed Chadwick Boseman in a recent interview on the Good Hang with Amy Poehler podcast. He shared how much fun they had working together, even though directing the film was very stressful for Coogler. He explained that Boseman helped him learn to appreciate the present moment and enjoy life more. Coogler then went on to share a specific memory…

Looking back on our relationship, I learned so much, but the most important lesson was to appreciate everything I have. Before he passed away, I often missed enjoying good things – like the success of ‘Sinners,’ being on your podcast, or even celebrating with my cast at awards events. I’d get caught up in feeling overwhelmed, treating it like work, or battling self-doubt. He always knew how to bring me back to the present moment and help me truly experience those things.

It’s surprising to think Ryan Coogler might struggle with self-doubt. He showed immense directing talent right from the start, with his first film, Fruitvale Station, featuring Michael B. Jordan. While his career took off quickly after that, it’s possible the speed of his success was a little overwhelming.

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When Black Panther was made, it was the most significant project in both Ryan Coogler and Chadwick Boseman’s careers, and it’s understandable if they both felt immense pressure. However, Boseman seemed to handle the stress much better and was a great support to Coogler. Coogler has said he constantly worried about losing his job on the film, but Boseman consistently reassured him. Coogler went on to explain…

When I was stressed while working with Panther, I’d often say I needed to rush or I was afraid of getting fired. He would always tell me to stop saying that. He even took me aside once and firmly told me to stop, because I genuinely believed it was a possibility. He reassured me that he wouldn’t let anything happen to me, that he wouldn’t let anyone fire me, and told me to relax and enjoy my work. He was incredibly good at staying present in the moment, and I often think about how he handled that situation.

Ryan Coogler is currently negotiating a groundbreaking deal with Warner Bros. that could significantly alter the relationship between directors and studios for years to come. Beyond creating a hugely successful original film, he’s poised to reshape the movie industry. And considering his work includes the massive hit Black Panther – a cornerstone of a major franchise – it’s fortunate he wasn’t dismissed, as his contributions are invaluable to cinema.

The loss of Chadwick Boseman was deeply felt, not just because he was a gifted actor, but because he was a wonderful person who embraced life and inspired those around him. Be sure to experience his incredible work, including the iconic film Black Panther, which is available to stream on Disney+.

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2026-01-20 20:11