Popular Award-Winning Actress Is Dead

Black Panther actress, Connie Chiume has died at 72.

The South African star and filmmaker died on Tuesday at a Johannesburg hospital.

She played and appeared in two of the Marvel Cinematic Universe films, set in the fictional land of Wakanda.

“The family asks for privacy during this difficult period. The family will communicate further details.”

The post was captioned: “She lives in our hearts forever.”

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 August 6, 2024.

The family will communicate further details and ask for privacy during this difficult period.”

Popular Award-Winning Actress Is Dead

Chiume played a former leader of the Mining Tribe, Zawavari, in the 2018 film Black Panther, starring the late actor, Chadwick Boseman as the lead character.

In the second film, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, her character becomes a Wakanda elder, who is part of the funeral passage for Boseman’s character, T’Challa, and also plays a role when Shuri (Letitia Wright) becomes the leader of the technologically advanced country and the new superhero.

Chiume also was in the Beyonce-directed musical film, Black Is King, and South African series Gomora, Seriously Single, and Queen Sono.

She won a South African Film and Television Award (Safta) for best supporting actress for her role in Zone 14, a series about two warring families, in 2009.

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 career was marked by numerous accolades, including a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 6th Royal Soapie Awards, and awards from the SA Film and Television Awards (Saftas) and the Hollywood and African Prestigious Awards in the U.S.

She was also celebrated for her roles in Beyoncé’s Disney musical film based on The Lion King, where she portrayed Sarabi, Simba’s mother.

Fellow South African actress Connie Ferguson wrote on Instagram: “Not sure I’m processing this! Rest in peace, my love. My deepest condolences to the Chiume family and friends. Wow!!!”

Director Mmabatho Montsho wrote: “Oh no Mama! Condolences to family and all loved ones.”