Cynthia Shange, the first black woman to represent SA at Miss World and actress, has passed away at the age of 76.
CYNTHIA SHANGE PASSES AWAY
The family of Cynthia Shange has confirmed her passing on 20 April. Cynthia, who was the first black woman to represent South Africa at the Miss World pageant in 1972, passed away in the early hours of the morning in a hospital in KwaZulu-Natal after facing an illness.
“With profound sadness, the family of Cynthia Shange shares the news of her passing at the age of 76. Shange, a legendary figure in South African arts and culture, left an indelible mark as both a beauty queen and revered actress. She passed away in the early hours of today in a hospital in KwaZulu-Natal after facing illness,” read the statement.
“Shange was a trailblazer in the South African entertainment industry, rising to prominence in the 1970s when she was crowned Miss Africa South. Her achievement was historic, as she excelled during the era of segregated pageantry and went on to represent South Africa at Miss World 1972 in London,” the statement continued.
CYNTHIA SHANGE’S LEGACY: WHO DID SHE LEAVE BEHIND?
Shange leaves behind daughters Sihle and Nonhle, sons Ayanda and Benele Theme. She also leaves behind grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Memorial and burrial details to be shared in due course.
Following her success in the beauty pageant industry, Cynthia left her mark in South African film and TV. She starred in Udeliwe (1975), widely recognised as South Africa’s first Black feature film. She also played the role of Mkabi in Shaka Zulu as well as MaNkosi Buthelezi in Muvhango for over 20 years.
The beauty queen and actress will be sincerely missed in the entertainment industry. Tributes have been pouring in for Cynthia just hours after her passing.