By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
South African actor Presley Chweneyagae “Tsotsi” has passed away at the age of 40, leaving fans and the entertainment industry in shock and mourning. According to sources close to him, he died in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
Chweneyagae rose to international prominence in 2005 with his lead role in the critically acclaimed film Tsotsi. His portrayal of a troubled young gangster who finds redemption through an abandoned baby earned him widespread acclaim and the Golden Horn award for Best Actor at the inaugural South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) in 2006.
Beyond Tsotsi, Chweneyagae was a familiar face on South African television, notably starring as “Cobra” in the popular series The River and its spin-off.
His versatility as an actor allowed him to effortlessly switch between roles, from villain to hero and from misunderstood character to passionate advocate, showcasing his depth and range.
His agency, MLA, released a statement expressing their grief and condolences: “We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, extended family, colleagues, and all who knew and loved him. While we grieve the immense loss of a remarkable talent, we celebrate the light he brought to the world. Details regarding memorial services will be shared in due course.”
The news has sparked an outpouring of tributes on social media, with fans and fellow artists reflecting on his talent and kindness.