Connie Chiume, the acclaimed South African actress known for her roles in Black Panther and Black Is King, has passed away at the age of 72.
The news was confirmed by her family through a statement posted on her verified Instagram account.
The statement shared by the Chiume family expressed their deep sorrow: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Connie Chiume, a celebrated and award-winning actress.” Chiume died on Tuesday, August 6, at Garden City Hospital; the cause of her death has not been disclosed.
Her daughter, in an emotional interview with South African News outlet News24, confirmed the tragic news. The family has promised to share more information in the future.
Chiume was widely recognized for her role as Mamokete “Kete” Khuse, a revered and moral figure in the South African soap opera Rhythm City, where she starred from 2007 to 2016. Her impressive career also included roles in Zone 14, Soul City, Mazinyo Dot Q, and Gomora.
In addition to her notable television work, Chiume gained international acclaim for her appearances in Marvel’s Black Panther (2018) and Beyoncé’s Black Is King (2020). She is survived by her four adult children.
