Seasoned broadcaster and Ukhozi FM presenter Bheka “Beekay” Mchunu has died. The renowned presenter succumbed to an undisclosed illness in hospital on Tuesday night.
The news of Mchunu’s passing was confirmed to Sunday World by a close friend who asked not to be named because he was not authorised to speak to the media.
Family yet to confirm the news
“It’s tragic news, as you would understand. Everyone is still in shock. But I prefer that you speak to the family. They should be the ones who break the news to you. A person’s death is sensitive. As you would know in our culture as Africans,” he explained before hanging up.
It is understood that the much-loved presenter succumbed to an undisclosed illness at a Durban hospital on Tuesday evening. He had earlier been admitted at the same hospital.
Mchunu has been experiencing health woes for a number of years. In one instance, he had to be pulled off air in the middle of a show. This after he suddenly lost his voice during a live broadcast.
He also had episodes of collapsing while he had been scheduled on air. This even prompted producers in some of his shows to play music only.
Health issues
In 2021, a rumour spread that he had died. However, it later emerged that the reports were inaccurate. In the wake of his health complications, which also resulted in him suffering a mild stroke, the SABC-owned station pulled him off air. The move, according to the public broadcaster, was to allow him time to recuperate.
Among the shows that Mchunu presented included a maskandi show, Sigiya Ngengoma and a midweek late-night show, Sibhukuda Kwesimanzozo.
Colourful radio career
His radio career started at Durban Youth Radio. He later joined another community radio station, Izwi Lomzansi, where he spent several years. It was while he was at this radio station that Ukhozi FM later snatched him.
He was born and raised in the rural village of Dondotha, outside eMpangeni, in northern KwaZulu-Natal.
