Channing Tatum Narrates Gut-Wrenching Video Honoring Late 'Little Friend'

Channing Tatum

Channing Tatum shared an important message in a new video, in which he narrated the story of a little boy named Mana Darville who passed away from brain cancer.

Tatum maintained a serious tone as he spoke of Mana, the son of actor Eka Darville and his wife Lila, saying, "Last month I lost my little friend, and the world lost one of its brightest lights. His miracle wasn't a miracle cure, but the miraculous impact of his life."

Mana, who was the eldest of three kids, including Zion and Axé, passed away in late October after being diagnosed with rare glioneuronal brain cancer at the start of 2023.

Doctors initially predicted he only had weeks to live, but due to surgeries and treatments, Mana continued battling the cancer for nine months.

In the new video—alongside footage of Mana as he enjoyed life with his family and tough moments as he fought his cancer—Tatum noted the boy's impact, with many people coming together to support the Darvilles throughout the illness.

"In 10 short years, he touched more people, more deeply than most ever will. He reminded us of the power of community, and the wisdom of fun. To not take these finite breaths for granted," he said.

Tatum went on to invite people to an online benefit concert and celebration of life being held on Jan. 18, at 6 p.m. PST, featuring performances by artists like Jessie J, Xavier Rudd and more.

The actor recently shared another post in honor of Mana on his Instagram of the boy energetically jumping into a pool, writing, "OUR BIG MANA MAN!! 🦍 WE LOVE YOU AND WE WILL SEE YOU AGAIN. IN THE MEAN TIME WATCH OVER US. I PROMISE YOU WITH ALL I HAVE I WILL NEVER STOP HAVING FUN."

"THANK YOU FOR THAT GIFT. LOVE YOU LITTLE BIG MAN. 👊🏼🙏🏼 @manafest.fun," Tatum concluded. Many friends and fans of the actor shared their condolences and words of support in the comments.

The upcoming concert will be held online, and more information and a place to donate to the Darville family can be found at manafest.fun.

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