Month: August 2024

Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie has called for the Miss SA pageant to be regulated by the government and not a private entity. This comes amid his concerns and questions over the nationality of one of the finalists, Chidimma Adetshina.

The 23-year-old – whose father is Nigerian and whose mother is South African with Mozambican roots, has come under fire for her ancestry.

The outspoken Patriotic Alliance leader and his deputy Kenny Kunene have been outspoken about wanting a “South African” with a “South African name” to represent the country.

GAYTON MCKENZIE WANTS PAGEANT TO BE REGULATED
Speaking to eNCA, Gayton McKenzie questioned why the Miss SA pageant was not regulated by the government.

He said, “Miss SA does not fall under us. If you use the country’s name, there should be some regulation. It needs to be regulated.

 

 

“Once you’re Miss SA, you represent the country.”

Gayton added that he was meeting with stakeholders of the pageant, particularly to discuss the controversy surrounding Chidimma Adetshina, who he previously labelled “Nigerian.”

He added: “We will be meeting with them this week, where we will get final answers.

He continued: “Miss SA is not just about being born in South Africa. You must love our culture and be an ambassador. Nigeria has an ambassador at their event, so we need a South African ambassador.

“We have nothing against her, but there are some questions we want answers to. But when we ask questions, we are being called xenophobic.”WHO OWNS MISS SA?
According to its website, hotel and hospitality conglomerate Sun International acquired full ownership of the Miss South Africa pageant in 2000

Before that, the pageant was sponsored by publications including Sunday Times, Rapport, and the now defunct Afrikaans newspaper, Die Landstem.

In 2019, Sun International sold the rights to the pageant to Weil Entertainment, whose owner is Miss SA CEO Stephanie Weil. The group remains a sponsor, and its entertainment property, the SunBet Arena, remains an official venue for the pageant.

miss sa chidimma adetshina, gayton mckenzie, miss sa
Gayton McKenzie has vowed to apologise to Chidimma Adetshina if she can prove she is South African. The Minister is engaging with Miss SA organisers to clarify her nationality.
Images via X: @sportsartscultur/ Instagram: @chichi_vanessa
Stephanie’s late mother, Suzanne Weil, founded Nine Squared Communications and Events, the pageant’s official PR company.

Stephanie told Her Network: “It had always been a project that was close to my heart and was a passion of mine. The young women I have met who have entered truly inspired me – their stories, what they achieved, and how Miss South Africa profoundly changed their lives.

Nando’s took to social media to write: “Thank you for lighting up our screens, our homes and our lives. Love, the Babies #RIPConnieChiume”

DID YOU KNOW
Nando’s is a South African multinational fast casual chain that specialises in Portuguese flame-grilled peri-peri style chicken.

 

 

 

 

 
It was founded in Rosettenville in Johannesburg in 1987 by Portugal-born Fernando Duarte and South Africa-born Robert Brozin.

Upon visiting a Portuguese-Mozambican takeaway named Chickenland and trying the chicken with peri peri, the pair bought the restaurant for about R80 000.

They renamed the restaurant Nando’s after Fernando’s first-born son.

Nando’s operates over 1 200 outlets in 30 countries.

Their logo depicts the Rooster of Barcelos, one of Portugal’s most common symbols.

GAYTON MCKENZIE PAYS TRIBUTE
Meanwhile, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie extended his condolences to the family, friends and fans of Chiume.

“Her passing at age 72 marks a profound loss for the South African nation and the world of arts and culture. Chiume’s matchless talents and dedication to her craft have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many,” said the department on Tuesday.

Born in Welkom, South Africa, Connie Chiume’s journey was one of resilience and brilliance. Her early years were spent in Welkom before she completed her matric in the Eastern Cape and graduated with a degree in teaching in 1976.

After a few years of teaching, she pursued her passion for travel and moved to Greece. Chiume began her illustrious acting career with roles in Porgy and Bess, Ipi Ntombi and Little Shop of Horrors.

Upon returning to South Africa, she captivated audiences with her performance as Thembi in the 1989 series Inkom’ Edla Yodwa and the 1990 film Warriors from Hell.

Her talent was recognised with a Best Actress award at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) in 2000.

CONNIE CHIUME CHARMED VIEWERS IN SOAP OPERA RHYTHM CITY
From 2007 to 2015, Connie gained prominence through her role as Stella Moloi in the SABC1 drama series Zone 14, earning her another SAFTA. She also received the Best Supporting Actress in a Drama award at the third SAFTAs.

In 2015, she charmed viewers in the soap opera Rhythm City as Mamokete Khuse.

Chiume’s talent transcended borders when she played the Mining Tribe Elder in Black Panther in 2018.

In 2020, she continued to shine in the drama series Gomora and appeared in the film Black Is King.

LIVING LEGEND AWARD
She was also a recipient of the Living Legend award at the department’s inaugural Cultural and Creative Industry Awards (CCIAs) that took place on the 30th of March 2024.

Upon learning of the news of Chiume’s passing, McKenzie said: “Her performances brought joy, inspiration, and a sense of pride to countless South Africans. She was more than an actress; she was a beacon of strength, resilience and grace. Mam’ Connie’s contribution to the arts not only entertained. She inspired, educated and uplifted communities throughout our country.

“As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate her life and legacy. May her memory continue to inspire future generations of artists. My thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time. May they find comfort in the outpouring of love and support from all those who cherished her.”

CONNIE CHIUME PASSES AWAY AT 72
South African actress Connie Chiume, best known for her roles on telenovelas such as Gomora, Rhythm City and more, passed away on Tuesday 6 August. The actress was 72 years old at the time of her death. She died at Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg.

 

The family of Connie released a short statement confirming her death.

“The Chiume family regrets to inform you of the passing of the internationally acclaimed award-winning actress Connie Chiume,” read the statement.

“Connie Chiume, 72, passed on at Garden City Hospital today on the 6th August 2024. The family asks for privacy during this difficult period. The family will communicate further details,” the statement continued.

Nongelo Chiume, the son of the legendary actress, revealed that she was admitted for a medical procedure before her death, in an interview with Newzroom Afrika.

The South African government has also sent their condolences to the Chiume family on X, formerly known as Twitter.

“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. 💔🕊️,” read the tweet.

FIVE THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE VETERAN ACTRESS
THE ACTRESS WAS BORN IN WELKOM

Connie hails from Welkom in the Free State. She was born to a Malawian father and Zulu mother.

CONNIE CHIUME WAS A TRAINED TEACHER

According to BBC, Connie was trained as a nurse but ended up as a teacher.

SHE WAS MARRIED FOR 19 YEARS

The 72-year-old was married to a South African man from from 1985 to 2004

CONNIE CHIUME IS A MOM OF FOUR

The actress is a mom of four adult children, leaving behind two sons and two daughters.

SHE APPEARED IN MARVEL’S ‘BLACK PANTHER’

The veteran actress appeared in Marvel’s hit film Black Panther, where she played Zawavari, a member of the Wakandan Tribal Council. Black Panther released in February 2018.

She also played a role in the sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, where she replaced Zuri (Forest Whitaker) as Wakanda’s Elder Statesman.

CONNIE CHIUME STARRED ON BEYONCE’S MUSICAL FILM

She also appeared in Beyonce’s Disney musical film based on The Lion King, where she played the role of Sarabi, Simba’s mother.

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has extended his condolences to the family, friends and fans of legendary actress Connie Chiume.

“Her passing at age 72 marks a profound loss for the South African nation and the world of arts and culture. Chiume’s matchless talents and dedication to her craft have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many,” said the department on Tuesday.

Born in Welkom, South Africa, Connie Chiume’s journey was one of resilience and brilliance. Her early years were spent in Welkom before she completed her matric in the Eastern Cape and graduated with a degree in teaching in 1976.

 

 

 
After a few years of teaching, she pursued her passion for travel and moved to Greece. Chiume began her illustrious acting career with roles in Porgy and Bess, Ipi Ntombi and Little Shop of Horrors.

Upon returning to South Africa, she captivated audiences with her performance as Thembi in the 1989 series Inkom’ Edla Yodwa and the 1990 film Warriors from Hell.

Her talent was recognised with a Best Actress award at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) in 2000.

CONNIE CHIUME CHARMED VIEWERS IN SOAP OPERA RHYTHM CITY
From 2007 to 2015, Connie gained prominence through her role as Stella Moloi in the SABC1 drama series Zone 14, earning her another SAFTA. She also received the Best Supporting Actress in a Drama award at the third SAFTAs.

In 2015, she charmed viewers in the soap opera Rhythm City as Mamokete Khuse.

Chiume’s talent transcended borders when she played the Mining Tribe Elder in Black Panther in 2018.

In 2020, she continued to shine in the drama series Gomora and appeared in the film Black Is King.

Bonang Matheba confirms she is in a relationship

South African superstar Bonang Matheba is excited to find love after 6 years of being single.

The media personality is rumored to be in a romantic relationship with executive producer David Phume of Cake Media.

 

Queen B has also hinted that she has a man she’s dating, and she confirmed in a recent episode of her reality show, B’dazzled By Bonang.

“I was single for six years before. Now you can’t get me any more. It’s going well. I’m very happy. We found our rhythm,” she said.

“I was adamant in knowing what I wanted, the guy I wanted. I was also so busy with my career, I was busy with BNG litigation, and I moved to New York City. So even as a human being, I think I wasn’t in a place that could accept … I wasn’t happy so there was no way I was going to be happy in a relationship.

“Came home from New York [and I] felt stronger, better, more beautiful, I [had] won my litigation, I found my rhythm, I was happier and then God said, ‘take this’.”

Ama Qamata saddened by actress Connie Chiume’s passing

Ama Qamata expresses herself on social media following the passing of a mother figure, Connie Chiume.

The veteran actress was announced dead on Tuesday, as she took her last breath at a hospital in Johannesburg.

 

 

 

Taking to Instagram, Ama shared a photo revealing the sweet bond she had with the 72-year-old.

Ama Qamata also wrote a touching note in tribute to the legend and how she was impacted by her.

“What a heavy day it’s been. I can’t wrap my head around everything that’s happened in the last 24 hours. How does one say goodbye when they’re not ready to? How do I even put into words the woman that you were, the light you carried, and the love you selflessly poured into all of us?”

“I had the pleasure of playing Mam Connie’s granddaughter on ‘Gomora’ and she took on the role beyond the screen, always checking in on us, the first to celebrate our achievements, correct us if we were wrong and also occasionally bring some baked goodies on set.”

“I will miss you so much Mama and I want to thank you for everything you’ve done. I am so honored to have experienced the magic of the legendary Connie Chiume, I love you and I hope you rest in eternal peace. My sincerest condolences to the Chiume family, thank you for sharing her with us,” Ama wrote.

Reigning Miss SA Natasha Joubert has comforted an anxious and emotional Chidimma Adetshina, who has been at the centre of nasty social media attacks over her nationality.

The tender moment was filmed during an episode of Crown Chasers. In it, Chidimma, fondly known as “ChiChi,” revealed how she had suffered suicidal thoughts as a result of her fragile mental health.

 

 

 

The Miss SA finale takes place on Saturday, 10 August, at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria.

CHIDIMMA ADETSHINA BREAKS DOWN OVER MENTAL HEALTH
In a segment called “Talk Your Worth” on Crown Chaser’s episode five, Natasha Joubert encouraged the finalists to speak about their emotions.

Unsurprisingly, Chidimma Adetshina, who has suffered xenophobic and Afrophobic comments from social media trolls, was one of the finalists who broke down in tears.

“Let it out,” encouraged Natasha, who embraced the 23-year-old in a hug.

Chidimma spoke about her mental health, revealing that she was in a place of “feeling vulnerable.”

She said: “With this week’s topic of mental health, I knew it was going to be a very intense one for me.

“I know what it’s like to go through depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. I still have scars on my hands.

miss sa, natasha joubert, chidimma
Miss SA finalist Chidimma Adetshina broke down in an emotional scene of Crown Chasers.
Image via SABC
miss sa, natasha joubert, chidimma
Image via SABC
“I’m not proud of it, but it’s my story. Bringing myself out of it was so hard.”

A proud Natasha told Chidimma: “You being here helps many other people struggling with the same thing.”

‘I HAVE A CHILD’
During the episode, Chidimma found herself in the bottom three and had to motivate as to why she deserved a spot in the Top 10.

During her address to the judges, who included Lerato Kganyago, Leandie Du Randt, and Andile Ncube, Chichi revealed a bit more about her private life.

She said: “If I need to bring awareness to it [mental health], it needs to start with me. I want to share my story to motivate others to share theirs, too.

“There is so much more to life. I have a child, and I want him to see that you can get out of it. He needs to be aware of it, as it is the most important thing.”

Chidimma previously revealed that she left her marriage over unfair gender roles imposed on her.

She told Sowetan: “I got divorced in February. We were not compatible because he had this ideology of what an African married woman is. I didn’t want to be in a position where I couldn’t go out but had to clean, cook… that was just not for me because, as a society, we are way past that phase”.

Actress Katlego Danke who played Connie Chiume’s daughter, Thati in Gomora took to X on Tuesday, 6 August to mourn her on-screen mother who played Mam Sonto.

South Africans comforted Danke with Chiume’s famous line, “Ooh, Thati my baby” which trended on X after the actress shared heartbroken emojis on her social media account.

 

 

 

RIP: CONNIE CHIUME
The family of the legendary actress Connie Chiume confirmed in a statement on social media that she passed away on Tuesday in hospital.

Chiume, who is famously known for her roles in Gomora, Black Panther and Zone 14 died at the age of 72.

In a brief announcement on Instagram on Tuesday, the family said: “The Chiume family regrets to inform you of the passing of the International Acclaimed award-winning actress Connie Chiume”.

“Connie Chiume 72, passed on at Garden City Hospital today on the 6th August 2024. The family asks for privacy during this difficult period. The family will communicate further details.”

SOUTH AFRICANS COMFORT KATLEGO DANKE: ‘OH, THATI MY BABY’
@ChipiKeChip: “That’s hard to believe. I can imagine how you feel with all the memories you have with her. May her soul rest in peace.”

@thabang4real2: “You two genuinely loved each other. Which Is rare to see in this industry. Condolences.”

@Glenn98886080: “Askies Nthati mam Sonto really broke our heart but may her beautiful soul rest in peace. May you & her family find solace in your hearts as well as Mzansi and da world.”

@fendii_belle: “Aw hle Thati ma baby, o re sile re sa lebella (she left us unexpectedly).”

@MosiaKaybee: “You were the first person that came to mind when I heard the news. So sorry.”

@AGeminiOf96: “Find solace in the fact that she lived a dream that most actors can’t even dream of. She achieved n got rewarded while she was still alive. A life well lived.”

@phalit12: “It’s Okay Nthati, Mme Sonto shattered all of us. You had a moment to rub shoulders with her to leave you this Imbokodo Spirit so you touch the next Gen. She said I impact/affect you differently from one person to the other and the rest about me you’ll get from others.

#Remembering Connie Chiume
CONNIE CHIUME WAS A SOUTH AFRICAN/MALAWIAN DESCENDANT ACTRESS AND PRODUCER.
BORN IN 1952 TO A MALAWIAN FATHER AND A SOUTH AFRICAN MOTHER. BEFORE SHE PURSUED AN ACTING CAREER SHE WAS A TEACHER FOR WHILE UNTIL SHE RESIGNED TO TRAVEL TO ISRAEL AND GREECE AS A PERFOMING CAST. DURING HER TRAVELS HER PASSION FOR ARTS AND DRAMA FINALLY GREW. SHE IS A MOTHER OF FOUR,SHE BEEN ACTING FOR OVER 40 YEARS.
FILMOGRAPHY

 

 

 

 

2018: Black Panther as a mining Tribe Elder 2017: Thula’s Vine TV series as Nothando 2015: Lerato as a pastor 2013: Fanie Fourie’s Lobola as Zinzi 2005: Zone 14 TV series as Stella Moloi 2004: Masinyo Dot Q TV series as MA Mavuso 2004: In My Country as Virginia Tabata 2000: I Dreamed of Africa as Wanjiku 1999: Chikin Biznis … The Whole Story! As Thoko 1998: Terarztin Christine III: Abenteurer in Sudafrika TV movie 1994: The Line TV series as Rosie 1994: The Air Up There Mrs. Urudu 1990: Warriors From Hell as Marita 1989: Inkom’ Edla Yodwa TV series as Tembi ii. Television roles 90 Plein Street (S1): Speaker of House Easy Money (S1): Gloria Grassroots (S1): Gog’ Selina Home Affairs (S2): Mrs Ntshinga Home Affairs (S3): Mrs Ntshinga Housekeepers (S1): Maria Motsepe I Love South Africa (S1): Contestant – Herself It’s Complicated (S1): Mokete It’s Complicated (S2): Bathobaile Mazinyo dot Q. (S1): Ma Mavuso-September Rhythm City (S1): Mamokete Khuse Ring of Lies (S2): Dumi Tau ‘Sgudi ‘Snaysi (S2): Salome Soul City (S6): Martha Ngcobo Stokvel (S4): Innocence Ledwaba Thula’s Vine (S1): Nothando Yizo Yizo (S2): Mrs Ralentswe Yizo Yizo (S3): Mrs Ralentswe Zone 14 (S1): Stella Moloi Zone 14 (S2): Stella Moloi Zone 14 (S3): Stella Moloi

The entertainment industry is mourning the passing of Gomora actress Connie Chiume who passed away on Tuesday, 6 August at 72 years.

ACTRESS: CAUSE OF DEATH
The family of the legendary actress Connie Chiume confirmed her cause of death in a statement on Instagram on Wednesday, 7 August.

“Mam Connie passed away on 6 August 2024 at Garden City Hospital after a period of illness”, says the family.

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Her children would like to express their deep appreciation to the doctors and nursing staff who provided exceptional care during her stay.”

The family also reveals that details of her memorial and funeral services will be shared on the actress’ social media platforms.

Chiume is known for her TV roles on e.tv’s soapie Rhythm City, SABC’s Zone 14, Soul City, Mazinyo Dot Q and Mzansi Magic’s Gomora.