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How did Dorothy Steel die? 'Black Panther' star's agent says 'she went out strong'

The senior actress, Dorothy Steel, started working in films only at the age of 88

Veteran actress Dorothy Steel, who is well-recognized for her role as Merchant Tribe Elder in the blockbuster movie 'Black Panther', has tragically died at the age of 95 years. The actress died at her home in Detroit, Michigan on Friday morning, October 15, 2021. The news of her death was confirmed by her agent Cindy Butler, who honored her legacy saying, "She went out strong". Steel was reportedly a part of Marvel's upcoming 'Black Panther' sequel 'Black Panther: Wakanda Forever', and she had already completed filming her part. 

In an earlier interview, Steel had admitted that her role in Black Panther sequel would be the last role of her career. "It was just amazing, it truly was. If anyone would have told me I would be an actor, I would've said you got to be out of your mind," she had shared about her journey as an actor. Steel was notably starred in movies like 'Jumanji: The Next Level' and 'The Trouble with Going Somewhere'. The senior actress started working in films only at the age of 88 years. 

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The exact cause of Dorothy Steel's death was not revealed by her agent, but it was known that she was flown back to her home after completing the shooting for the Black Panther sequel, due to health issues. In a candid interview before her death, Steel shared that she was inspired by her grandson to join the cast of 'Black Panther'. "Grandma, you always talk about stepping out onto nothing, letting your faith take you there. Now how come you don't do it yourself. Either you're gonna step out there or you're gonna shut up," Steel's grandson told her.

Steel also mourned the tragic untimely death of her former costar Chadwick Boseman and noted that the late actor was very affectionate toward her. Referring to him as 'the King', Steel had said, "Every day, he would make sure if I was on the set, he would come by and make sure he gave me a big old hug and kiss." 

Speaking from the perspective of a Black actress working in a movie like 'Black Panther', Steel had said, "We were one big melting pot of Black people and we knew we were doing something that had never been done before.....We have power and it's time for us to step up and take over. That's what we have to do and take over."

Steel's legacy will continue through her memorable role in the iconic, genre-defining Marvel movie. She will appear on the screen one last time on July 8, 2022, at the release of 'Black Panther: Wakanda Forever'. 

"RIP Dorothy steel. Starting pursuing acting at the age of 88 yrs old is such an inspiration for all those who quit before even starting. May your soul rest in the lands of Wakanda ruled by our king Mr. Boseman. Both of you are such great peoples," a fan tweeted in her memory.

Another fan wrote, "Her story lifted my heart so much! I’m glad she got to fulfill a dream before she went. Bless her soul!" 

"Rest well with the ancestors. Say hi to Chadwick for us | Black Panther Actress Dorothy Steel Dies at 95," a third fan said.