Connie Chiume, the celebrated South African actress known for her role in Marvel’s Black Panther, has died at the age of 72, her family announced.
The multi-award-winning actress, a beloved figure in South African television, passed away on Tuesday afternoon at a Johannesburg hospital following a medical procedure.
Chiume’s illustrious career spanned several decades, during which she starred in numerous acclaimed South African TV shows, including Rhythm City, Zone 14, and Gomora.
She rose to prominence in 1989 with her role in the popular series Inkom’ Edla Yodwa and continued to be a significant presence on television.
Her family released a brief statement expressing their sorrow:
“The Chiume family regrets to inform you of the passing of the internationally acclaimed award-winning actress Connie Chiume.”
They have requested privacy during this difficult time and promised to share more details in due course.
Chiume’s son, Nongelo Chiume, revealed to Newzroom Afrika that his mother had been admitted for a medical procedure prior to her passing. SABC News, South Africa’s public broadcaster, paid tribute to Chiume, describing her as a “beacon of hope.”
In the 2018 blockbuster film Black Panther, Chiume portrayed Zawavari, a member of the Wakandan Tribal Council. She reprised a significant role in the 2022 sequel Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, replacing Forest Whitaker’s character, Zuri, as Wakanda’s Elder Statesman. She also gained acclaim for her role as Sarabi in Beyoncé’s Disney musical film based on The Lion King.
Chiume’s most recent work included Heart of the Hunter, released earlier this year, and the TV series Soon Comes Night, which premiered in February.
Her talent and versatility earned her numerous accolades, including an NTVA Avanti Award for Best Actress in a Drama Series for her role in Soul City in 2000, and a South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama for her role in Zone 14 in 2009.
Born in Welkom, Free State province, to a Malawian father and a Zulu mother, Chiume initially trained as a nurse before becoming a teacher and eventually finding her true calling in acting.
Reflecting on her career in a 2022 interview with the MacG Podcast, she expressed a desire for people to remember her impact in their own unique ways.
Tributes have poured in on social media, with fans and colleagues celebrating her as a versatile and inspiring actress.
The South African government posted on X, “Her outstanding work will always be remembered.”
Connie Chiume is survived by her four children – two sons and two daughters.
