The South African film and television industry is in mourning following the untimely passing of celebrated actor Presley Chweneyagae, who died on Monday, 27 May 2025, at the age of 40. The news was confirmed by his talent agency, MLA, sending shockwaves through the country and across the global film community. While the official cause of death has not yet been disclosed, tributes have poured in from colleagues, political leaders, and fans who described him as “a once-in-a-generation talent” and “a beacon of South African storytelling.”
A Breakout Star in TsotsiPresley’s meteoric rise to fame began in 2005 when he starred as the troubled anti-hero in Tsotsi, a gritty yet emotionally gripping drama set in Johannesburg’s townships. The film, directed by Gavin Hood and based on Athol Fugard’s novel, won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2006, placing South African cinema firmly on the global stage.
Chweneyagae’s haunting portrayal of a young gangster seeking redemption not only earned him international acclaim but also resonated deeply with South Africans, many of whom saw their own communities reflected in his character’s struggles and transformation.“I had no idea when we made Tsotsi that it would change my life forever,” he said...
