Tributes Pour In for South African Actor Presley Chweneyagae

South Africans are mourning the passing of actor Presley Chweneyagae, who has died at the age of 40.

He gained global recognition in 2005 for his starring role in Tsotsi, the Academy Award-winning film that shed light on the social struggles and poverty in post-apartheid South Africa.

Messages of tribute have flowed from his family, government officials, and figures in the entertainment industry, celebrating him as a “true legend,” a “gifted storyteller,” and a “trailblazer” who brought South African narratives to life on both screen and stage.

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Tributes continue to pour in for the late actor Presley Chweneyagae, whose passing was announced by his agency, MLA, on Tuesday.

The agency didn’t however announce the cause of the death of the 40-year-old actor.

“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of one of South Africa’s most gifted and beloved actors, Presley Chweneyagae, at the age of 40. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, extended family, colleagues, and all who knew and loved him.

“While we grieve the immense loss of a remarkable talent, we celebrate the light he brought to the world. Details regarding memorial services will be shared in due course,” read a statement from MLA.

The agency described him as a long-time cherished member of the MLA family, who was more than a client, but a friend, a mentor to many, a beacon of creativity and perseverance.

It also applauded his passion for empowering the next generation of artists will remain an integral part of his legacy.

The Mahikeng-born actor’s artistic journey began at the age of 10 when he joined drama classes at the then North West Arts Council (now the Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sports Foundation), setting him on a lifelong path of storytelling, expression, and excellence.

His rise to international fame was in the starring role in the 2005 blockbuster, Tsotsi, which won South Africa’s first-ever Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.

Presley’s versatility spanned theatre, television, and film, with standout performances in Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013) and the award-winning television series The River (2018).

He was fondly known for roles such as fondly remembered for roles such as “Cobrizzi,” “Mokwepa” and “Cobra”,

Meanwhile, the North West Department of Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation MEC Tsotso Tlhapi described Chweneyagae’s passing as a sad day for the province, country and arts community.

“We extend our sympathies and support to the family, friends and the broader movie and theatre industry. A son of the North West and an inspiration to the youth across the country, Presley cut his artistic teeth at the legendary Mmabana Sports, Arts and Culture Foundation in Mahikeng. We are proud to say he was a willing supporter of the work done at his alma mater, which is an arm of the Department. He will be remembered for his warm personality and a sense of humour,” said Tlhapi.

In addition, Tlhapi said the province is proud to have exported to the world such incredible talent.

Government also paid tribute to the actor, describing him as a talented storyteller.

“Rest in Peace, Presley Chweneyagae. The nation mourns the loss of a gifted storyteller whose talent lit up our screens and hearts. Your legacy will live on through the powerful stories you told. Robala ka kagiso,” @GovernmentZA.

“@actorspaces thanked the actor for his honour and humility”.

“RIP to the multi awarding Oscar winning Tsotsi star Presley Chweneyagae, who gave the craft weight, substance, and meaning. And through him, generations saw what it means to serve with honour and humility. His legacy will forever inspire us to carry our stories with the same depth and dignity.

Rest in power, Presley Chweneyagae.”

Source: Larson Thebe | NewsNote