Renowned South African actress Michelle Botes, best known for her iconic roles in local television dramas, has passed away at the age of 63. The actress succumbed to advanced multiple myeloma, a rare and incurable blood cancer, on Saturday morning.
A Brave Battle with Cancer
In her final interview with *Bruis*, Botes opened up about her courageous two-and-a-half-year battle with the disease. Diagnosed in July 2022, she underwent various treatments, including chemotherapy, steroids, and a stem cell transplant. However, she later chose to discontinue aggressive treatments, stating, “I didn’t want to feel so bad again and not be myself.”
In October, doctors gave Botes a prognosis of two to three months after her cancer progressed significantly. Despite exploring holistic and less invasive treatments in November, her health declined rapidly in the weeks leading up to her passing.
Botes spent her final days surrounded by family in Observatory, Cape Town, where she lived with her son Daniel, his wife Nolene, and her daughter.
## Tributes Pour In
Botes’ death was confirmed by her agent, Suzi Howes of Oh Talent, who expressed deep sadness over the loss. “She was an icon of our industry. Michelle had grace and a beautiful spirit. She will be greatly missed,” Howes said, extending condolences to Botes’ family and loved ones.
Oh Talent also honored her on social media, describing her as an inspirational figure with an infectious light. “It was an honor knowing you over this past year. Your commitment to your craft was inspirational. Deepest condolences to your nearest and dearest,” the post read.
## Legacy on Screen
Michelle Botes was a household name in South Africa, celebrated for her memorable portrayal of Cherrel de Villers-Hains-le Roux, a villainous character in the popular soap opera *Isidingo*. The role earned her a devoted following as audiences loved to hate her.
She also starred in other successful shows such as *Binnelanders* and *The Legacy*. Her performances garnered multiple accolades, including two awards at the 2006 Avanti Awards for Best Actress and Best Onscreen Villain. In 2021, she won a SAFTA Golden Horn Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Telenovela.
## A Light Gone Too Soon
Despite her on-screen success, Botes remained grounded and fiercely dedicated to her craft. In her last days, she expressed peace with her journey, saying, “Whatever awaits me, I’m ready.”
The South African entertainment industry has lost a remarkable talent whose contributions will be remembered for years to come. Her legacy continues through the countless lives she touched on and off-screen.https://twitter.com/Jabu_Macdonald/status/1870397643580481591?s=19
Michelle Botes is survived by her children, Daniel and his wife Nolene, and her daughter.