The family of award-winning actress Connie Chiume has expressed its heartfelt gratitude to the public for their support following the death of the actress.
“The Chiume family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude for all the messages of support and condolences during this difficult time, as they cope with the loss of their mother, Connie,” read the statement.
Chiume’s family on Tuesday afternoon confirmed that the actress died at the Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg, “following a period of illness”.
“Her children would like to express their deep appreciation to the doctors and nursing staff who provided exceptional care during her stay.”
Born in Welkom, Chiume initially trained as a nurse until she began her acting career in 1977 when she moved to Greece to join the cast of the musical “Sola Sola”.
She later gained popularity in South Africa after playing Thembi in the series “Inkom’ Edla Yodwa” in 1989, as well as for roles in TV shows like “Rhythm City” and “Gomora”.
The actress went on to win several honours across her career, including the NTVA Avanti Award for Best Actress in a Drama Series for' Soul City' in 2000, and the SAFTA for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama for 'Zone 14' in 2009.
Her roles in “Black Panther” where she played Zawavari, a mining tribe elder and “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” launched her into another level of international stardom.
Academy award-winning actress Lupita Nyongo who starred in the “Black Panther” movies with Chiume paid tribute to the fallen legend.
“We have lost a library! May @conniechiume rest in peace and power,” she wrote on Instagram.
The official South African Government account tweeted: “Our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of multi-award winning and legendary actress Connie Chiume. Her outstanding work will always be remembered.”
Our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of multi-award winning and legendary actress Connie Chiume. Her outstanding work will always be remembered. 💔![CDATA[]]>🕊️#RIPConnieChiume pic.twitter.com/6GlE4QLkpV
Chiume is survived by her four children - two sons and two daughters.
IOL Entertainment