Chadwick Boseman's widow paid a glowing tribute to the late actor at his Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony

Simone said during her speech: "In life, Chad was more than an actor, or even an artist. He was a spiritual teacher, fortified by a family and close friends that kept him grounded in faith; a team that believed in him, protected him and fought for him.

"Colleagues that trusted his vision, that lifted him up and forged a real brotherhood: you have no idea how pivotal those moments were.

"Chad, today we recognise a lifetime of artistry. We recognise your skill and your devotion, and we cement your legacy as a hero and an icon. You lived with honour, and you walked with truth. You were as brilliant as you were beautiful as you were kind.

"We love you, we miss you, we thank you."

Elsewhere, Ryan Coogler, who directed Chadwick in Black Panther, also paid a heartfelt tribute to the late actor.

The acclaimed filmmaker described Chadwick as a "great" of the movie business.

He said: "This is something that people who maybe played ice hockey with Wayne Gretzky can attest to, people who played basketball with Michael Jordan can attest to: there's something special about being that close to somebody that great.

"You realise how much you don't measure up, but you also realise how much the human body is capable of. Chad showed that every day."

Chadwick died at home in Los Angeles with his wife and family by his side, and his family subsequently announced the news of his passing.

They said in a statement at the time: "A true fighter, Chadwick persevered through it all, and brought you many of the films you have come to love so much.

"From Marshall to Da 5 Bloods, August Wilson's Ma Rainey's Black Bottom and several more - all were filmed during and between countless surgeries and chemotherapy. It was the honor of his career to bring King T'Challa to life in Black Panther."