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.

Tyla features on 21 Savage song alongside Rema

South African music star Tyla trends all day on social media following reports about her collaboration with 21 Savage and Rema.

Famous American streamer, Kai Cenat teased some new songs during his recent livestream, and one of the songs featured Tyla.

The teased song made the SA singer top trending lists as people reacted to the unreleased track.

“I want to remind you all that as much as we try to underrate this Tyla girl, she is better than all of our females and it’s not close. Look at how she changed the dynamics of the song! 21 savage verse was clear and rich, he is welcome to the afrobeats wave,” a tweep wrote.

South African actress Connie Chiume passed away today, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable contributions to the film industry. Known for her role as the wise and dignified grandmother in the “Black Panther” franchise, Chiume was a beloved figure in the South African arts community. Her death has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from fans and colleagues alike.

In a poignant twist, Chiume’s final Instagram posts have caught the attention of her followers and the broader public. In her last three posts, Chiume shared videos of herself playing Naledi Aphiwe’s song “Ngiyabonga.” This repeated endorsement of Aphiwe’s music has sparked speculation about Chiume’s intentions and whether she saw a promising future for the young artist.Chiume’s support for Aphiwe’s music could be seen as a significant endorsement, potentially foreshadowing a successful journey for the emerging musician. Known for her discerning taste and influence in the entertainment industry, Chiume’s public approval of “Ngiyabonga” suggests that she recognized and appreciated the talent and potential in Aphiwe’s work.

The song “Ngiyabonga,” which translates to “I thank you” in Zulu, carries a message of gratitude and appreciation. Chiume’s choice to highlight this particular track in her final days may reflect her own sentiments and emotions, as well as a desire to uplift and support new talent in the industry.

Fans and followers have taken to social media to discuss the significance of Chiume’s posts, with many expressing their belief that Aphiwe’s music career will flourish in the wake of this high-profile endorsement. Some see it as a passing of the torch, with Chiume’s legacy continuing through the success of artists she believed in and supported.

While it remains to be seen how Chiume’s endorsement will impact Aphiwe’s career, the recognition from such a respected figure undoubtedly provides a powerful boost. As the South African music community mourns the loss of Connie Chiume, there is also a sense of hope and anticipation for what the future holds for Naledi Aphiwe.

In the end, Chiume’s legacy is not only about her past achievements but also about the future she helped to shape. Her final acts of support and recognition for new talent like Naledi Aphiwe are a testament to her enduring influence and the lasting impact she had on those around her. As fans celebrate Chiume’s life and contributions, they also look forward to seeing how her endorsement will help to propel Aphiwe’s career to new heights.