Connie Chiume, a seasoned South African actress who participated in Marvel’s Black Panther, died at the age of 72, according to her relatives. The multi-award-winning actress has appeared in numerous South African television productions, including Rhythm City, Zone 14, and, most recently, Gomora. Chiume was a certified teacher before becoming a popular figure on mainstream television. According to a brief family statement, she passed away on Tuesday afternoon at a Johannesburg hospital.
“The Chiume family regrets to inform you of the passing of the internationally acclaimed award-winning actress Connie Chiume,” the statement said.
The family asked for privacy during this difficult period and said it would communicate details later.
Her son Nongelo Chiume told TV broadcaster Newzroom Afrika that she was admitted for a “medical procedure” before her death.
Connie Chiume graced South African TV for decades in shows such as Rhythm City, with the country’s public broadcaster SABC News describing her as a “beacon of hope” in their tribute.
She rose to prominence as an actress in 1989 when she appeared in the popular South African television series Inkom’s Edla Yodwa.
Connie Chiume played Zawavari, a member of the Wakandan Tribal Council, in the film Black Panther (2018). In the 2022 sequel Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, she took over as Wakanda’s Elder Statesman from Zuri (Forest Whitaker). She was also well-known for her roles in Beyoncé’s Disney musical based on The Lion King, in which she played Simba’s mother, Sarabi. Her most recent part was in the film Heart of the Hunter, which was released earlier this year, and she also appeared in the television series Soon Comes Night in February. Connie Chiume received multiple honors, including an NTVA Avanti Award for Best Actress in a Drama Series for her performance in Soul City in 2000.
In 2009, she won a South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama for her performance as Stella Moloi in the family drama Zone 14. She was born in Welkom, Free State province, to a Malawian father and Zulu mother. She trained as a nurse but became a teacher.
In 2022, she told the MacG Podcast that she would like for people to remember her the way they choose to.
“I have impacted each and every person in a different way. Whatever way I have impacted you, remember me that way.”
Tributes have flooded in on social media with some of her fans describing her as a versatile actress who played a multitude of roles in the South African television industry.
“Her outstanding work will always be remembered,” the South African government posted on X.
She leaves behind four children – two sons and two daughters.
Source:Citinewsroom
https://citinewsroom.com/2024/08/black-panther-actress-connie-chiume-dies-aged-72/
