‘Black Panther’ actor and Beyoncé collaborator Connie Chiume dies aged 72

‘black-panther’-actor-and-beyonce-collaborator-connie-chiume-dies-aged-72
‘Black Panther’ actor and Beyoncé collaborator Connie Chiume dies aged 72

South African actress Connie Chiume has died at the age of 72. Chiume, who was known for her work in television, film, and theatre, appeared in Beyoncé’s 2020 musical film Black Is King and Marvel’s Black Panther. The news was confirmed by her family in an Instagram post, where they requested privacy during this time. Chiume passed away at Garden City Hospital on 6 August 2024 following a medical procedure. She is survived by her four children, two sons and two daughters.

Chiume’s son Nongelo Chiume revealed in an interview with South Africa’s Newzroom Afrika that his mother was recovering well from a medical procedure but received the news of her passing unexpectedly. He noted that Chiume’s work in activism with HIV and Aids programs and gender-based violence was all things that have inspired him and his siblings. “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,” he said.

Born in Welkom, in Free State province, Chiume initially trained as a nurse but later switched to acting after working as a teacher. She made her acting debut in 1976 in the play Muntu, a performance that would lead her to appear in prominent South African television series Inkom’ Edla Yodwa in 1989. The veteran actor received a lifetime achievement award from the South African Film and TV Awards in 2022 for her many appearances in shows including Zone 14, Soul City, Mazinyo Dot Q, and Gomora.

Tributes have poured in for the actor on social media. The South African government sent a heartfelt message on Twitter, writing: “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.

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