By Rorisang Modiba
South African actress Connie Chiume passed away on Tuesday afternoon following a short illness.
Her family announced her death on her Instagram account.
“It is with great sadness that the Chiume family informs you of the passing of our beloved Connie Chiume, an internationally acclaimed and award-winning actress,” they said.
The family said that she died at Netcare Garden City Hospital in Mayfair, Johannesburg, and asked for privacy, promising to share further details later.
In the 2018 Black Panther movie, Chiume played Zawavari – a member of the Wakandan Tribal Council.
In the Black Panther sequel, Wakanda Forever, she played Wakanda’s Elder Statesman.
Her most recent performance was in Heart of the Hunter, released earlier this year.
With a career spanning over 50 years, the multi-award-winning Welkom-born actress appeared in the popular TV programmes Yizo Yizo 2, Zone 14, Rhythm City, and Gomora.
Her friend and fellow veteran actress, Abigail Kubeka, said her passing had left her stunned and speechless – “You just don’t know what to say”.
The South African government posted: “Her outstanding work will always be remembered.”
She leaves behind four children – two sons and two daughters.
Pictured above: Connie Chiume.
Source: Instagram
