The sudden death of adored, award-winning actor Presley Chweneyagae has left the South African arts community in mourning.
Close family members have confirmed Chweneyagae’s passing to Sunday World. MLA Ceo Nina Morris Lee confirmed the news in a statement.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the untimely death of one of South Africa’s most gifted and beloved actors Presley Chweneyagae at the age of 40,” reads the statement
Following the news, commercial broadcaster MultiChoice said the company is still awaiting a statement from the family.
The renowned actor’s passing was also covered by North West Times and Newzroom Afrika on Tuesday morning.
Sunday World has learnt that the actor died following a brief illness.
Chweneyagae, who was born in Mafikeng North West, shot to fame for his extraordinary acting abilities in the film Tsotsi, which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2005.
The movie was a gritty depiction of township life.
He enthralled audiences around the world with his heartfelt performance as the troubled young gangster looking for atonement in Tsotsi. The part earned him the Golden Horn Award in 2006.
Tsotsi defined Chweneyagae’s career
At the fourth Royalty Soapie Awards in 2020, Chweneyagae won the award for outstanding lead actor.
Even though the cause of his death remains unknown, his passing has left a void in the hearts of both colleagues and admirers, as the country unites to honour the legacy of a genuine cultural icon.
His reputation as a breakout star was cemented when critics commended his ability to strike a balance between tenderness and intensity.
His role in Tsotsi defined his career and put South African cinema on the world map. Chweneyagae’s talent, however, extended far beyond Tsotsi.
His star shone brighter in roles such as Thuso “Cobra” Mokoena in The River, adding more nuance and charm to each project.
His continued popularity was further cemented in early 2025 when he starred in the 13-episode drama series Cobrizi.
Having overcome a difficult upbringing in Soweto, he frequently drew inspiration for his performances from his own life, which gave his work authenticity and served as an inspiration to many aspiring actors.
Colourful journey marred by controversies
However, there were some controversial aspects to Chweneyagae’s journey.
Opinions were divided in 2023 when he came under public scrutiny for allegedly failing to pay child maintenance.
Concerns regarding corruption and poor management were raised in 2024 when his foundation was connected to a National Lotteries Commission funding scandal.
Despite these difficulties, people who knew him talked about his kindness, passion for his work, and dedication to coaching up-and-coming artists through his community service projects.
