Connie Chiume, 'Black Panther' actress, dies at 72

Veteran actress will forever remain a child at heart

Internationally acclaimed actress Connie Chiume has passed away after being admitted to hospital.

The Chiume family confirmed her death and requested privacy as they grieve. In a statement they said: "The Chiume family is deeply saddened to announce the untimely passing of our beloved mother, grandmother and sister, Connie Temweka Gabisile Chiume, who passed away on August 6, 2024, at the age of 72."

"Connie was a talented actress who enjoyed a long and illustrious career, gracing the screens with her presence for over four decades."

Chiume was born in Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa, on June 5, 1952. She began her acting career in the late 1970s, appearing in small roles in television series and films.

Her breakthrough role came in the 1992 film "Sarafina!", in which she played the role of Sarafina's mother. She went on to star in a number of other films and television series, including "Black Panther", "Zone 14", and "Scandal!".

Chiume was also a talented stage actress, and she appeared in a number of productions, including "The Lion King" and "Sarafina!".

She was a recipient of numerous awards, including the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver, which was awarded to her by the South African government in 2019.

Chiume is survived by her two children, Sipho and Lerato, and her grandchildren.

By Aaron Perine - August 6, 2024 05:28 pm EDT