Connie Chiume, the award-winning actress best known for her role in "Black Panther," has died at the age of 72.
The Daily Caller reported that the beloved actress passed away on August 6, 2024, in Johannesburg, South Africa, with tributes pouring in from family members and the government.
Her family confirmed her death through a social media announcement on her official Instagram page. Chiume, who was recovering well, according to her son Nongelo Chiume, experienced an unexpected turn of events leading to her death.
“She was recovering well, but, unfortunately, today we caught the news of her passing,” said Nongelo Chiume in a statement to Newsroom Afrika. The exact cause of her death remains unconfirmed by her son.
The Chiume family expressed their deep sorrow in an official statement:
The Chiume family regrets to inform you of the passing of the internationally acclaimed award-winning actress, Connie Chiume. Connie Chiume passed on at Garden City Hospital today on the 6th of August, 2024. The family asks for privacy during this difficult period. The family will communicate further details.
In addition to her family's sentiments, tributes from all over began to pour in, including a statement from the South African government. “Our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of multi-award-winning and legendary actress Connie Chiume. Her outstanding work will always be remembered #RIPConnieChiume,” the government shared on X (formerly Twitter).
Fans have also taken to social media to share their expressions of grief and remembrances, celebrating her life and career.
Connie Chiume's career spanned several decades, earning her a place as a beloved and respected figure in the entertainment industry. She was most famous for her portrayal of the tribal leader Zawavari in the 2018 blockbuster "Black Panther." She reprised her role in the 2022 sequel, "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever."
Her talent and dedication did not go unnoticed. Chiume received two South African Film and Television Awards during her illustrious career. Her contributions to the arts have left a lasting impact on audiences both in South Africa and worldwide.
“We want her to be remembered as a person who gave her all through her talents. We want her to be remembered as someone who was selfless and someone who always wanted to see the next person doing great and believing in their God-given talents,” her son Nongelo expressed.
The news of Connie Chiume's passing has reverberated throughout the entertainment industry and her home country of South Africa. The breadth of her work and the tributes she has received highlight the depth of her influence and the love she garnered throughout her career.
Connie Chiume's life was filled with moments of greatness, and her death leaves behind a legacy worthy of celebration and remembrance. Her extraordinary journey in the acting world is a testament to her hard work, passion, and dedication to her craft.
In summary, Connie Chiume's passing has prompted heartfelt tributes from her family, the South African government, and her numerous fans worldwide. Her celebrated career, particularly her role as Zawavari in "Black Panther," and her award-winning achievements have cemented her status as a legendary actress whose legacy will endure.
