Veteran actress Connie Chiume has passed away at the age of 72.
The internationally acclaimed and award-winning actress, renowned for her roles in Black Panther, Black Is King, and Gomora, as well as her impactful performances in local soap operas like Zone 14 and Rhythm City, died at Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg.
Her family has released a statement and will provide further details in due course.
The Chiume family announces with deep sorrow the passing of internationally acclaimed and award-winning actress Connie Chiume.
Connie Chiume passed away on August 6, 2024, at Garden City Hospital, at the age of 72. The family requests privacy during this difficult period and will share further details as they become available.
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A Legendary Career
Connie Temweka Gabisile Chiume, born on June 5, 1952, in Welkom, South Africa, was a renowned actress and filmmaker whose impact on the entertainment industry spanned decades.
Chiume’s career was marked by a series of notable performances in both film and television, making her one of the most respected figures in South African and international cinema.
Early Life and Education
Chiume was born to Wright Tadeyo Chiume, originally from Usisya, Nkhata Bay, Malawi, and MaNdlovu from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
She spent her early years in Welkom and completed her matriculation in the Eastern Cape.
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Chiume pursued a degree in teaching, graduating in 1976, but chose to leave her teaching career to explore her passion for acting.
Career Highlights
Connie Chiume’s acting journey began with roles in productions such as Porgy and Bess, Ipi Ntombi, and Little Shop of Horrors.
Upon returning to South Africa, she made her mark with significant roles in Inkom’ Edla Yodwa and Warriors from Hell.
Her talent and dedication were recognized when she won the Best Actress award at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) in 2000.
Her stage performances in You Strike The Woman and You Strike The Rock were highly acclaimed.
Chiume gained widespread recognition for her role as Stella Moloi in the SABC1 drama series Zone 14 from 2007 to 2015, a role that earned her another SAFTA. She also received the Best Supporting Actress Award during the 3rd SAFTAs.
In 2018, Chiume starred as the Mining Tribe Elder in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film Black Panther.
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Her role in the 2020 film Black Is King and her portrayal of Mam’Sonto Molefe in the drama series Gomora further cemented her status as a versatile and respected actress.
Personal Life
Connie Chiume was married from 1985 to 2004 and was a mother to four children. Her family, including her two sons and two daughters, has been deeply affected by her passing.
Legacy
Connie Chiume’s contributions to the arts have left an indelible mark on both South African and global cinema.
Her work continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
As the industry mourns her loss, Chiume’s legacy will live on through her memorable performances and the impact she made in her field.
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