Charlaine Kirk Chweneyagae, wife of the late award-winning actor Presley Chweneyagae, delivered a moving tribute during his memorial service held on Tuesday, 3 June 2025, at the Mmabatho Convention Centre in Mahikeng, North West. The service marked the first of several tributes to the iconic South African actor, best known for his leading role in the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi.
Though Charlaine did not speak in person, her heartfelt message was read by her sister-in-law, Bianca Carmicheal. In the tribute, Charlaine remembered Presley as more than just a husband — she described him as a powerful presence and a man whose spirit and warmth filled every room he entered.
“Presley was not just a husband or son-in-law; he was a force, a light. He had a quiet strength, an unmistakable charm, and a gracious soul,” Charlaine shared through Bianca. She also expressed her heartbreak at facing a future without his laughter and love.
The actor’s colleagues and fans joined the family in celebrating his legacy and mourning his passing. Among those who honoured Presley at the memorial was actor Israel Matseke-Zulu, who co-starred with him in Tsotsi. Matseke-Zulu described Presley as a living testament to the idea that one’s background does not determine their destiny.
“Presley came from humble beginnings, yet his dedication and talent carried him to the heights of international acclaim,” he said. “He proved that where you come from does not define where you’re going.”
Social media was flooded with tributes from fans and fellow actors. Former Generationsactor Rantebeng Makapan remarked, “We have lost a giant.” Others, like user @zola_hashatsi, acknowledged the deep impact Presley had on the industry, saying, “A giant has fallen, but the echo of his voice remains in every story he told.”
Another notable figure, Warren Masemola — who worked alongside Chweneyagae in The River — also paid his respects. Masemola mourned not just Presley but also fellow actor Don Mlangeni Nawa, with whom they had formed a strong on-screen bond.
Presley’s passing has left a significant void in South Africa’s entertainment landscape. He was just 40 years old at the time of his death. A second memorial service is scheduled to take place on Thursday, 5 June, at the State Theatre in Gauteng. His funeral will be held on Saturday, 7 June, at the Akasia Community Hall in Pretoria, beginning at 08:00.
Presley Chweneyagae’s contributions to the arts will be remembered for generations. As Charlaine Kirk so eloquently put it, his presence may be gone, but his spirit will forever live on through his work, his family, and the many lives he touched.
