Denzel Washington

Washington's rep released a statement to CNN paying tribute to Boseman who died last week at the age of 43 following a four-year battle with colon cancer.

"He was a gentle soul and a brilliant artist, who will stay with us for eternity through his iconic performances over his short yet illustrious career," Washington said in his statement. "God bless Chadwick Boseman."

On Sunday night ABC aired the special "Chadwick Boseman: A Tribute For A King" following a commercial-free airing of "Black Panther."

The star sat down recently with "60 Minutes" correspondent Bill Whitaker and discussed diversity in the industry.

The six-time Academy Award nominee is highly favored to nab a seventh nomination for his new film "Fences," which he also directed.

Washington said he doesn't have to think about #OscarsSoWhite as he has lived it.

"I've been the guy at the Oscars without my name being called," he said. "I've been the guy at the Oscars when my name is called. I've been the guy at the Oscars when everybody thought they was going to call my name and they didn't."

The post from Facebook page American News has been shared more than 22,000 times since Monday.

It claims Mr Washington praised Mr Trump, saying: "We need more and more jobs.

"He has hired more employees, more people, than anyone I know in the world."

The story also claims Mr Washington called President Barack Obama "anti-Christian".