SOUTH AFRICA – The South African film and television industry has been once again been plunged into mourning, following the death of Tsotsi star, Presley Chweneyagae, who has passed away at the age of 40.
Chweneyagae rose to international prominence in 2006 after starring in Tsotsi, a gripping drama set in the crime-ridden streets of Soweto, which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
A statement shared by his agency MLA on Tuesday revealed the veteran actor died on Tuesday at the age of 40 but did not disclose the cause of his death.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, extended family, colleagues, and all who knew and loved him.
“While we grieve the immense loss of a remarkable talent, we celebrate the light he brought to the world. Details regarding memorial services will be shared in due course,” read the statement.
Born in 1984 in the town of Mafikeng in North West Province, Chweneyagae began acting at the age of 10. In addition to Tsotsi, he appeared in the biographical film Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013) and played a role in the acclaimed South African TV series The River (2018).
Chweneyagae rose to international prominence with his starring role in the 2005 film Tsotsi, which captured the Academy Award for Foreign Language Film at the 78th Academy Awards.
His powerful performance in the title role earned him the Black Movie Award for Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role, establishing him as one of South Africa’s most compelling acting talents.
The South African government paid tribute to Chweneyagae, lauding his outstanding contribution to the film, television and theatre fraternity.
“The nation mourns the loss of a gifted storyteller whose talent lit up our screens and hearts,” the government said in a post on X. “Your legacy will live on through the powerful stories you told.”
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