The South African actress, Connie Chiume, who appeared in the movie “Black Panther,” passed away at the age of 72.
Chiume, 72, was celebrated for her huge contributions to the
arts and her powerful on-screen presence.
Chiume’s career spanned several decades, during which she
became a household name through her roles in popular TV shows such as
Mohlolohadi, Yizo Yizo, Zone 14, Rhythm City, Housekeepers, and Grassroots.
She also made a mark internationally with her role in the
Marvel film Black Panther and its sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
Her recent work included a notable performance in the hit
series Gomora.
The Chiume family has requested privacy as they mourn this
huge loss.
In a statement, they said, “The Chiume Family regrets to
inform you of the passing of the internationally acclaimed award-winning
actress Connie Chiume.
Connie Chiume, 72, passed on at Garden City Hospital today
on August 6, 2024. The family will communicate further details and ask for
privacy during this difficult period.”
The South African government formally announced the passing of Chiume via Twitter, “Our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of multi-award winning and legendary actress Connie Chiume. Her outstanding work will always be remembered.”
Chiume was in a marital union from 1985 to 2004. She is survived by her four children, comprising two male and two female offspring.
Tributes have been pouring in from fans and industry peers,
celebrating Chiume’s remarkable impact on the entertainment industry.
Actor Spaces, a platform dedicated to African film and
theatre, honored her as a “legendary multi-award-winning actor and arts
activist,” highlighting her powerful performances and lasting influence.
Renowned actress Kate Actress expressed her admiration for
Chiume on social media, writing,
“NO! Rest in peace Mum Connie. You were deeply loved &
appreciated. My condolences to South Africa; they have lost a beautiful soul.
Sleep well, my friend!”
Chiume’s illustrious career has been recognized with
numerous prestigious accolades, including the Lifetime Achievement Award at the
6th Royal Soapie Awards, as well as accolades from the South African Film and
Television Awards (SAFTAs) and the esteemed Hollywood and African Prestigious
Awards in the United States.
Furthermore, she gained international acclaim for her
remarkable portrayal of Sarabi, Simba’s mother, in Beyoncé’s Disney musical
film adaptation of The Lion King.
Here are notable aspects of her remarkable life and career:
Early Life and Background
Born on June 23, 1952, in Welkom, Free State, South Africa,
Chiume was the daughter of a Malawian father and a Zulu mother.
Career Transition: Before becoming a renowned
actress, Chiume was trained as a nurse and later worked as a teacher.
Breakthrough Role: Chiume’s career began with popular
roles in South African television, with her breakthrough role in the 1989
series Inkom’ Edla Yodwa marking the start of her prominent acting career.
Global Fame
Connie Chiume gained global recognition for her role as
Zawavari in Marvel’s Black Panther and its sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda
Forever. Her portrayal of a member of the Wakandan Tribal Council showcased her
talent on an international stage.
Award-Winning Career: Chiume’s exceptional
performances earned her several prestigious awards, including a Lifetime
Achievement Award at the 6th Royal Soapie Awards, as well as multiple accolades
from the SA Film and Television Awards (Saftas).
In 2000, Chiume received the NTVA Avanti Award for Best
Actress in a Drama Series for her role in Soul City.
Personal Legacy: In a 2022 podcast interview, Chiume
reflected on her desire to be remembered for the different ways she touched
people’s lives.
Iconic TV Roles: Chiume starred in numerous
influential South African TV series, including Rhythm City, Zone 14, Yizo Yizo,
and Gomora.
In 2015, she took on the role of Mamokete Khuse in the widely acclaimed soap opera Rhythm City.
In 2018, she was cast as Zawavari, an Elder of the Mining Tribe, in the film Black Panther. In the sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, released in 2022, she succeeded Zuri, portrayed by Forest Whitaker, as the Elder Statesman of Wakanda.
In an interview with South Africa’s Sunday Times in 2022, she expressed her surprise at the immense success of Black Panther. “I attended an audition without any knowledge of the project,” she recounted. “Upon arrival, I was given a script to perform. I recognized that the character was an African addressing the nation. I donned my African attire, memorized my lines, and gave it my all.”
Additionally, in Beyoncé’s Disney musical film Black is King, which is inspired by The Lion King, Chiume played the role of Sarabi, Simba’s mother.