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.