Eric Todisco
“Black Panther” actress Connie Chiume has died at the age of 72.
She passed away in a hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa on Tuesday, her family confirmed in a statement on her Instagram page.
“The Chiume family regrets to inform you of the passing of the internationally acclaimed award-winning actress, Connie Chiume,” the statement began.
“Connie Chiume passed on at Garden City Hospital today on the 6th August 2024. The family asks for privacy during this difficult period. The family will communicate further details.”
Chiume’s son, Nongelo Chiume, told South African news network Newzroom Afrika that the late star was “admitted for a medical procedure” before her death.
“She was recovering well, but unfortunately today we caught the news of her passing,” said Nongelo.
He added that the family “can’t confirm” details of Chiume’s death yet, but they “will constantly be communicating on any updates that they need to share with the broader public.”
When asked how he wants his mother to be remembered, Nongelo said, “We want her to be remembered as a person who gave her all through her talents. We want her to be remembered as someone who was selfless and someone who always wanted to see the next person doing great and believing in their God-given talents.”
The South African Government posted a tribute to Chiume on X (formerly Twitter).
“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 #RIPConnieChiume,” the post read.
Chiume was born in South Africa on June 5, 1952.
She was a teacher before pursuing a career in acting.
In 2000, she won the award for Best Actress in a Drama Series at the South African Film and Television Awards for her role in “Soul City.” She won another SAFTA in 2009 for her role in “Zone 14.”
Chiume landed a role in 2018’s “Black Panther” as tribal leader Zawavari.
She reprised the role in the 2022 sequel “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.”
In an interview with IOL in 2018, Chiume said her experience working on the Marvel blockbuster film was “inspirational.”
“I am very excited to be a part of this production. It truly has been an inspiration working with such big stars and being directed by a young and talented man like Ryan Coogler,” she said.
Her death comes four years after her “Black Panther” co-star Chadwick Boseman passed away.
Boseman died in August 2020 at the age of 43 from colon cancer, which he stayed private about, including from his colleagues on “Black Panther.”
Chiume also appeared in Beyoncé’s 2020 musical film “Black Is King,” the visual companion to “The Lion King” remake. She played Simba’s mother, Sarabi.
Her other acting credits include the South African film “Seriously Single” and drama shows “Queen Sono” and “Gomora.”
Chiume is reportedly survived by her four children.
