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 Tsotsi
Presley’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 in a past interview. “It gave me a voice and a purpose.”
From Screen to Stage and Back Again
Following Tsotsi, Chweneyagae continued to build a diverse and impactful career. He co-wrote and performed in Relativity, a stage production that toured globally, winning praise for its raw depiction of township life. In television, he became a staple in South African households through his long-running role as Thuso “Cobra” Mokoena in The River. His character, a flawed but fiercely loyal young man, showcased his depth as an actor and earned him legions of fans.
His spin-off show, Cobrizi, gave the character even more room to evolve, further proving his skill in blending humour, vulnerability, and defiance into a single performance.
Beyond the Limelight
Away from the camera, Presley was a dedicated mentor and community activist. Known for his humility and deep connection to his roots in Mafikeng, he frequently visited schools and arts centres to share his story and nurture young talent.
“Presley believed in the power of art to transform lives,” said fellow actor and friend Sello Maake kaNcube. “He made it his mission to open doors for those coming after him.”
His contribution to youth development earned him recognition from several organisations, and he was frequently invited to speak at forums on arts, culture, and social change.
National and Global Mourning
President Cyril Ramaphosa released a statement expressing “deep sadness at the loss of one of our brightest stars,” describing Chweneyagae as “a storyteller who gave voice to the voiceless and showed the world the richness of our experience.”
The South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) described him as “a true legend of South African cinema whose impact will be felt for generations.”
Fans gathered outside his home in Pretoria, laying flowers and lighting candles in his memory. Many shared clips of his performances on social media, celebrating a life that moved, inspired, and challenged viewers.
An Unfinished Chapter
Presley Chweneyagae leaves behind his mother, a strong figure he often credited as his anchor and his young children. At the time of his passing, he was involved in several new projects to uplift emerging filmmakers from disadvantaged backgrounds. As the nation reflects on this beloved actor’s extraordinary life and career, one truth rings clear: Presley’s story is far from over. It lives on in the lives he touched, the roles he played, and the legacy he leaves behind.
He was not just an actor. He was a mirror to our society, a voice of its heartbeat, and now, an eternal symbol of its soul.
Funeral details are expected to be announced later this week.
