Black Panther Actress Connie Chiume Passes Away at 72

Connie Chiume, the celebrated South African actress known for her role in Marvel’s Black Panther , has died at the age of 72, her family announced.

The multi-award-winning actress, a beloved figure in South African television , passed away on Tuesday afternoon at a Johannesburg hospital following a medical procedure.

Chiume’s illustrious career spanned several decades , during which she starred in numerous acclaimed South African TV shows , including Rhythm City , Zone 14 , and Gomora .

She rose to prominence in 1989 with her role in the popular series Inkom’ Edla Yodwa and continued to be a significant presence on television.

Her family released a brief statement expressing their sorrow:

“The Chiume family regrets to inform you of the passing of the internationally acclaimed award-winning actress Connie Chiume.”

They have requested privacy during this difficult time and promised to share more details in due course.

Chiume’s son , Nongelo Chiume, revealed to Newzroom Afrika that his mother had been admitted for a medical procedure prior to her passing. SABC News , South Africa’s public broadcaster, paid tribute to Chiume, describing her as a “beacon of hope .”

In the 2018 blockbuster film Black Panther , Chiume portrayed Zawavari, a member of the Wakandan Tribal Council. She reprised a significant role in the 2022 sequel Black Panther: Wakanda Forever , replacing Forest Whitaker’s character, Zuri, as Wakanda’s Elder Statesman. She also gained acclaim for her role as Sarabi in Beyoncé ’s Disney musical film based on The Lion King .

Chiume’s most recent work included Heart of the Hunter , released earlier this year, and the TV series Soon Comes Night , which premiered in February.

Her talent and versatility earned her numerous accolades , including an NTVA Avanti Award for Best Actress in a Drama Series for her role in Soul City in 2000, and a South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama for her role in Zone 14 in 2009.

Born in Welkom, Free State province, to a Malawian father and a Zulu mother, Chiume initially trained as a nurse before becoming a teacher and eventually finding her true calling in acting .

Reflecting on her career in a 2022 interview with the MacG Podcas t, she expressed a desire for people to remember her impact in their own unique ways.

Tributes have poured in on social media , with fans and colleagues celebrating her as a versatile and inspiring actress.

The South African government posted on X, “Her outstanding work will always be remembered.”

Connie Chiume is survived by her four children – two sons and two daughters .

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