Award-winning actress Connie Temweka Gabisile Chiume (nee Maluleka) has passed away. The Black Panther, Black Is King and Blessers actress passed away this afternoon.

REST IN PEACE

The news of her passing was confirmed by her family in a statement sent to ZiMoja, which said the actress passed away at Garden City Hospital today. “The Chiume family regrets to inform you of the passing of internationally acclaimed, award-winning actress Connie Chiume," the statement said. The family has asked for privacy during this time to process the sad news. Mam’ Connie leaves behind her daughter, Nothando Mabuza, her son, Nongelo Chiume, and her grandchildren.

LIFE WELL LIVED

Mam Connie, as she was known to those close to her, stayed in Benoni, Gauteng. She was best known for her roles as Mam Sonto on the telenovela Gomora and Khuse, a churchgoing mom in the e.tv soapie Rhythm City from 2007-2016. She also previously played the role of Stella Moloi in the drama series Zone 14, for which she won the Golden Horn award for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama at the third South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs). Her acting career spans back to the 1980s. She also has leading roles in Soul City, Mazinyo Dot Q, 90 Plein Street, Yizo Yizo, Chikin Biznis (1998), I Dreamed of Africa (2000), and Country of My Skull (2004), and several others. She will be remembered for her outstanding performance on Black Pather alongside Michael B. Jordan, Angela Bassett, Winston Duke, and John Kani.