The family of renowned South African actor Connie Chiume, who starred in the Marvel movie Black Panther, has confirmed her passing at the age of 72.
The multiplely honored actress appeared in Rhythm City, Zone 14, and most recently, Gomora, among other South African TV series.
Despite having training as a teacher, Chiume rose to fame on mainstream television.
According to a brief family statement, she passed away on Tuesday afternoon at a hospital in Johannesburg.
“The Chiume family regrets to inform you of the passing of the internationally acclaimed award-winning actress Connie Chiume,” the statement said.
The family requested privacy during this trying time and promised to provide more information at a later time.
Before passing away, she was admitted for a “medical procedure,” according to her son Nongelo Chiume, who spoke with TV station Newzroom Afrika.
In their homage, South Africa’s state broadcaster SABC News called Chiume a “beacon of hope” for her decades-long presence on programs like Rhythm City.
She became well-known as an actress in 1989 after making an appearance in the hit South African television program Inkom’ Edla Yodwa.
Chiume played Wakandan Tribal Council member Zawavari in the 2018 Black Panther movie. She took the role of Wakanda’s Elder Statesman, Zuri (Forest Whitaker), in the 2022 follow-up Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
She was also praised greatly for her roles as Sarabi, Simba’s mother, in Beyoncé’s Disney musical adaptation of The Lion King.
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In addition to her February appearance in the TV series Soon Comes Night, her most recent role was in the earlier this year film Heart of the Hunter.
For her performance in Soul City in 2000, Chiume won an NTVA Avanti Award for Best Actress in a Drama Series, among other honors.
For her performance as Stella Moloi in the family drama Zone 14, she was later awarded a South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama later in 2009.
Her mother is Zulu, while her father is Malawian. She was born in the Free State province of Welkom. She became a teacher despite having nursing training.
She stated on the MacG Podcast in 2022 that she wanted people to remember her however they saw fit.
“I have impacted each and every person in a different way. Whatever way I have impacted you, remember me that way.”
Social media has been swamped with tributes, with some of her followers characterizing her as a multi-talented actress who was involved in a wide range of South African television productions.
“Her outstanding work will always be remembered,” the South African government wrote on X.
She left behind two boys and two daughters, totaling four children.
