Latest news with #Chweneyagae
The Star
a day ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Acclaimed actor Presley Chweneyagae remembered for his impactful storytelling and unrivalled talent
The South African entertainment industry is in mourning following the untimely passing of acclaimed actor Presley Chweneyagae, who died at the age of 40 from natural causes related to breathing problems. As tributes flood in from across the country, fans and colleagues alike remember the beloved actor for Chweneyagae's memorable performances that left a lasting mark on screens and stages alike. The actor, affectionately known as 'Cobrizi wa le Easy', rose to fame through his unforgettable roles, notably in the popular telenovela The River and his Academy Award-winning performance in the 2005 film Tsotsi . His ability to portray richly nuanced characters endeared him to audiences, making him one of the finest actors to ever grace South African screens. Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, shared a poignant tribute, highlighting the inspiring journey of Chweneyagae from humble beginnings to becoming a symbol of hope for youth aspiring towards careers in the arts. 'Presley was proof that where you start in life doesn't have to be where you finish. He was a living reminder that dreams from kasi streets are just as valid as dreams from polished boardrooms,' McKenzie stated. He further acknowledged the profound impact Chweneyagae made during his time, underscoring the storytelling ability that resonated with the soul of the nation. 'The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture mourns the loss of a true trailblazer – a storyteller who held the soul of a nation in his craft. We salute his contribution and commit to ensuring his impact is never forgotten,' McKenzie added while extending condolences to Chweneyagae's family and friends. The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation (SACR) of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, Honourable Disebo Tlebere, voiced her grief, stating, 'Our winter has just become colder. The news of Presley Chweneyagae's passing has come as a profound shock, as we had hoped to witness his brilliance for many more years,' Tlebere said. Actress Terry Pheto, who shared an unforgettable moment in Oscar glory with Chweneyagae, voiced her devastation on social media, stating, 'I am shocked and saddened by the news of Presley's sudden passing. My heart goes out to his family and the rest of our friends and colleagues in the film industry.' In remembrance of Chweneyagae's legacy, memorial services are scheduled to take place on June 3 in Mahikeng and June 5 in Gauteng, with his final resting place set for June 7 in Pretoria. [email protected] Saturday Star
IOL News
a day ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Acclaimed actor Presley Chweneyagae remembered for his impactful storytelling and unrivalled talent
The beloved South African actor Presley Chweneyagae has passed away at 40, leaving behind a legacy etched in the hearts of fans and colleagues. The beloved South African actor Presley Chweneyagae has passed away at 40, leaving behind a legacy etched in the hearts of fans and colleagues. The South African entertainment industry is in mourning following the untimely passing of acclaimed actor Presley Chweneyagae, who died at the age of 40 from natural causes related to breathing problems. As tributes flood in from across the country, fans and colleagues alike remember the beloved actor for Chweneyagae's memorable performances that left a lasting mark on screens and stages alike. The actor, affectionately known as 'Cobrizi wa le Easy', rose to fame through his unforgettable roles, notably in the popular telenovela The River and his Academy Award-winning performance in the 2005 film Tsotsi. His ability to portray richly nuanced characters endeared him to audiences, making him one of the finest actors to ever grace South African screens. Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, shared a poignant tribute, highlighting the inspiring journey of Chweneyagae from humble beginnings to becoming a symbol of hope for youth aspiring towards careers in the arts. 'Presley was proof that where you start in life doesn't have to be where you finish. He was a living reminder that dreams from kasi streets are just as valid as dreams from polished boardrooms,' McKenzie stated. He further acknowledged the profound impact Chweneyagae made during his time, underscoring the storytelling ability that resonated with the soul of the nation. 'The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture mourns the loss of a true trailblazer – a storyteller who held the soul of a nation in his craft. We salute his contribution and commit to ensuring his impact is never forgotten,' McKenzie added while extending condolences to Chweneyagae's family and friends. The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation (SACR) of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, Honourable Disebo Tlebere, voiced her grief, stating, 'Our winter has just become colder. The news of Presley Chweneyagae's passing has come as a profound shock, as we had hoped to witness his brilliance for many more years,' Tlebere said. Actress Terry Pheto, who shared an unforgettable moment in Oscar glory with Chweneyagae, voiced her devastation on social media, stating, 'I am shocked and saddened by the news of Presley's sudden passing. My heart goes out to his family and the rest of our friends and colleagues in the film industry.' In remembrance of Chweneyagae's legacy, memorial services are scheduled to take place on June 3 in Mahikeng and June 5 in Gauteng, with his final resting place set for June 7 in Pretoria. Saturday Star
The Star
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Award-winning 'Tsotsi' actor Presley Chweneyagae has died at 40
Alyssia Birjalal | Published 2 days ago South Africans are reeling from the news of Presley Chweneyagae's passing. His death was confirmed by Nina Morris Lee, CEO of talent company Moonyeenn Lee & Associates. "It is with profound sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of one of South Africa's most gifted and beloved actors, Presley Chweneyagae," the statement read. "He was a gifted writer and director, co-authoring the internationally acclaimed stage play 'Relativity' ... His passion for empowering the next generation of artists will remain an integral part of his legacy ... Details regarding memorial services will be shared in due course." Renowned for his unforgettable performances in South African cinema, Chweneyagae was best known for his role in the critically acclaimed film "Tsotsi," which won the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film in 2006, as well as in "Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom". Hailing from Soweto, the 40-year-old captivated audiences with his talent, resilience and charisma. His recent role as Thuso 'Cobra' Mokoena in "Cobrizi", a spin-off from the award-winning series "The River", showcased his incredible range as an actor. In a poignant gesture, a recent image of Chweneyagae was shared on his official Instagram account, albeit with no caption, reinforcing the sombre reality of his passing. The response from fans and followers has been overwhelming, with many taking to social media to express their sorrow and disbelief. @ clemmy26 wrote in the comments: "The way we are so quick to type "RIP" to celebs posts.... I wish we could celebrate U guys more while U are still alive .... will always be loved 😢😢😢😢." @ mullan_kentrel could not believe the news: "A in't no way corbrizi wa le easy passed away😭." Among the crowd, @tswana_butter questioned the validity of the news, reflecting the shock that many are feeling: "Is this true guys?😮." And @locally915 wrote: "Can he respond once coz I dnt believe it."
IOL News
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Thabiso Ramotshela remembers his on-screen dad, Presley Chweneyagae: memorial and funeral plans revealed
Actor Thabiso Ramotshela mourns the loss of Presley Chweneyagae. Image: Instagram Actor Thabiso Ramotshela is mourning the loss of his on-screen father, Presley Chweneyagae, who played Thuso 'Cobra' Mokoena in the once-popular Mzansi Magic telenovela, 'The River'. Ramotshela, who portrayed Cobra's son Morena Mokoena in the show, paid a heartfelt tribute to his on-screen father through a TikTok video. The emotional clip showcased moments from their time on set, Ramotshela captioned it with a touching message: 'I don't even know where to start. Goodbye pops. I love you and will see you soon.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ The talented actor's notable roles extend beyond 'The River', with standout performances in 'Tsotsi', which won an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film in 2006, and 'Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom'. He also starred as a police officer in 'iNumber Number' alongside S'dumo Mtshali, cementing his status as a household name. His recent role as Thuso 'Cobra' Mokoena in 'Cobrizi', a spin-off from the award-winning series 'The River', also showcased his versatility as an actor. Chweneyagae died on Tuesday, May 27, at the age of 40 due to natural causes. According to the family spokesperson, Mzwakhe Sigudla, Chweneyagae's death was due to complications related to breathing. Despite the efforts of paramedics who were called to his residence, the actor did not make it and succumbed to death, with his passing being confirmed by his talent management, Moonyeenn Lee & Associates (MLA). Additionally, the family spokesperson, Mzwakhe Sigudla, spoke to the media, sharing funeral and memorial service details outside Chweneyagae's home in Pretoria. He added that there will be two memorial services held next week to celebrate the talented actor's life. The first memorial service will take place in Mahikeng on Tuesday, June 3, followed by a second one in Pretoria on Thursday, June 5. The family spokesperson also shared that Chweneyagae's funeral will be on Saturday, June 7, with the venue still to be confirmed.
The South African
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The South African
Meshack Mavuso shares Presley's touching video from Saturday
As Mzansi continues to mourn and pay tribute to multi-award-winning and seasoned ' The River' actor Presley Chweneyagae, his former co-star Meshack Mavuso has shared a touching video of him from Saturday. Chweneyagae passed away on Tuesday morning at the age of 40, and his passing has sent shockwaves across the country. Meshack took to social media to express his heartbreak over the actor's untimely passing and posted a clip capturing one of Presley's final joyful moments. In the video, the Tsotsi star appears to be in high spirits, dancing to a traditional song at what seems to be an intimate gathering at the South African State Theatre. The Smoke & Mirrors actor revealed that Presley had changed his plans en route to the stadium and instead decided to join him at the event. Mavuso said it's hard to believe Chweneyagae is gone, especially since he seemed joyful on Saturday. 'I had no idea it was our last hangout. Can't believe you were this happy just this past Saturday and now this 💔,' he wrote. He also shared that the late actor had asked to borrow a jacket, which he said he would never get back. 'How you called me to say I must bring you a jacket because you hadn't checked the invite and now the red carpet was red carpeting and you didn't wanna look like a 🤡, you said🤣. 'When you said I'm never getting my jacket back, I had no idea this is what you meant. When you called to check if I'm ok the next day, I couldn't have imagined that you weren't ok. Wavuma nje kanjalo ngawe? Or kune movie that you all are shooting there in heaven esingayazi? Go shine your light, Tobetsa 🕊️. It is well,' he wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mavuso Magabane (@mavuso101) Many have been wondering what happened to him after the heartbreaking news of the legendary actor's passing. His family has since spoken out, with its spokes person, Mzwakhe Sigudla, confirming that Presley died of natural causes related to breathing difficulties. 'There has been speculation, and we want to clarify that there has been no foul play with what happened to Presley, and unfortunately, it is what you call natural death.' 'He had a bit of complication related to breathing and paramedics were called to attend the scene, but unfortunately, he did not make it, and there is nothing we know other than that, and we want to put it to the nation that it is a natural death,' he told the media. WHAT ARE YOUR FONDEST MEMORIES OF THE LATE STAR? Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news
