South Africa mourns death of much-loved actor

Tributes are pouring in for renowned actor Presley Chweneyagae who has passed away at the age of 40.

The award-winning actor rose to fame in the Oscar-winning movie Tsotsi in 2005.

His roles extended to The River, Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, and his most recent offering in Cobrizi, a 13-episode dramedy which is a spin-off from telenovela The River in which he played the role of Cobra.

Social media was abuzz on Tuesday, with many expressing their sadness following the actor’s passing:

 

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A post shared by MLA Talent Management (@mla.est1974)

Heartbroken to hear of the passing of Presley Chweneyagae. A true giant of South African film and theatre, his legacy in Tsotsi, The River, and beyond will live on. Condolences to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his brilliance. 🕊️ #RIPPresleyChweneyagae pic.twitter.com/uQzPLMdvyj

— ANC SECRETARY GENERAL | Fikile Mbalula (@MbalulaFikile) May 27, 2025

🕊️ Rest in Power, Presley Chweneyagae

A true legend of South African cinema.

It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of Presley Chweneyagae — a powerhouse performer whose talent left an indelible mark on our screens and in our hearts.#RIPPresleyChweneyagae#SAFTAs pic.twitter.com/MHw179OGLp

— South African Film & Television Awards #SAFTAs (@SAFTAs_1) May 27, 2025

One of the scenes that made me cry on Tsotsi. Now I’m crying for his life in reality. 😭😭🕯️🕯️🕯️🕯️#RipPresleyChweneyagae pic.twitter.com/zRfa725VMP

— AshleyOgle🇿🇦•parody (@Ash_leyBBMzansi) May 27, 2025

Man what a sad day in South Africa. Thank you for sharing your talent with us. 🕊️#CobriziMzansi pic.twitter.com/UGeQ75GJKA

— Nomsa Mtshali♥️ (@nolihle123) May 27, 2025

Not my Cobrizi 🤍🤍🕊
Intando yakho Baba sometimes😑 #RIPPresleyChweneyagae pic.twitter.com/0gBhYyU9a7

— Duchess of Mthwakazi (@Xesha8) May 27, 2025

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