Connie Chiume, Legendary South African Actress from Black Panther, Dies Aged 72

Connie Chiume, the esteemed South African actress known for her roles in “Black Panther” and “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” has died at the age of 72.

Her family made the announcement, revealing that the beloved star died at Garden City Hospital on August 6, 2024.

In a statement on Instagram, the Chiume family shared, “The Chiume Family regrets to inform you of the passing of the internationally acclaimed award-winning actress Connie Chiume. The Family asks for privacy during this difficult period. The family will communicate further details.”

Chiume’s illustrious career spanned decades on South African television, where she starred in popular shows like “Rhythm City.” The country’s public broadcaster, SABC News, paid tribute to her, describing her as a “beacon of hope.”

In 2022, Chiume was honored with the South African Film and TV Awards’ Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating her numerous performances in series such as “Zone 14,” “Soul City,” “Mazinyo Dot Q,” and “Gomora.”

Her role in “Black Panther” as Zawavari, a member of the Wakandan Tribal Council and former leader of the Mining Tribe, saw her star alongside notable actors like Martin Freeman, Angela Bassett, and Michaela Cole.

Most recently, Chiume appeared in “Heart of the Hunter,” released earlier this year, and in the TV series “Soon Comes Night” just six months ago.

Her son, Nongelo Chiume, spoke to TV broadcaster Newzroom Afrika, providing more context on her passing.

“She was admitted for a medical procedure. She was recovering well but unfortunately today we then got the news of her passing,” he said. He expressed immense pride in her legacy, adding, “We are proud to be her children. I think she left us a beautiful legacy and the work she has done, not only for her children and family but for the community and the country at large. Connie was one of the most notable icons coming from South Africa and her work on activism with HIV and Aids programmes, gender-based violence, those are all things we take inspiration from. We look forward to continuing her legacy as her children.”

Chiume also featured in Beyoncé’s 2020 musical film “Black Is King.”