Veteran South African actress Connie Chiume, known for her role in the Marvel film “Black Panther,” has passed away at the age of 72, her family announced.
Chiume, an award-winning actress, had a distinguished career in South African television, starring in popular shows such as “Rhythm City,” “Zone 14,” and most recently, “Gomora.”
Initially trained as a teacher, Chiume became a household name in television. She died on Tuesday afternoon at a Johannesburg hospital following a “medical procedure,” according to a statement from her family, which requested privacy during this difficult time.
Chiume’s son, Nongelo Chiume, shared the news with TV broadcaster Newzroom Afrika. South Africa’s public broadcaster, SABC News, honored her as a “beacon of hope” in their tribute.
Chiume first gained prominence in 1989 with her role in the popular series “Inkom’ Edla Yodwa.” She later appeared as Zawavari in “Black Panther” (2018) and its sequel “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” (2022). Additionally, she was celebrated for her portrayal of Sarabi in Beyoncé’s Disney musical film based on “The Lion King.”
Her most recent work includes the film “Heart of the Hunter,” released earlier this year, and the TV series “Soon Comes Night,” which aired in February. Throughout her career, Chiume received several awards, including an NTVA Avanti Award for Best Actress in a Drama Series for “Soul City” (2000) and a South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama for “Zone 14” (2009).
Born in Welkom, Free State province, to a Malawian father and a Zulu mother, Chiume initially trained as a nurse before becoming a teacher and later an actress. In a 2022 interview with the MacG Podcast, she expressed her wish for people to remember her in their own way, based on the impact she had on their lives.
Social media has been flooded with tributes from fans and colleagues, celebrating her versatility and outstanding contributions to the South African television industry. The South African government also paid tribute, stating, “Her outstanding work will always be remembered.”
Connie Chiume is survived by her four children: two sons and two daughters. Further details from the family will be communicated at a later time.
