South Africa is mourning the loss of acclaimed actor Presley Chweneyagae, who was laid to rest on Saturday, 7 June 2025, in an emotional funeral service held at the Akasia Community Hall in Pretoria. Best known for his roles in The River and Tsotsi, Chweneyagae’s passing has left a deep void in the entertainment industry and in the hearts of many fans.
Among the most heart-wrenching moments of the day was when Chweneyagae’s wife, Charlaine Kirk, broke down in tears as his coffin was lowered into the ground. A video shared by Newzroom Afrika on social media captured the somber scene, with Kirk visibly inconsolable as she bid farewell to her husband.
Public Sympathy and Tributes
The video quickly circulated on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), prompting an outpouring of support from the public. Social media users shared messages of empathy and heartbreak:
- @AnzaTino wrote, “This is the most painful part after the numbness that comes with preparing a funeral.”
- @lesito2020 added, “Heartbreaking, I’m telling you. Rest easy groot man.”
- @ref_xoxo shared, “May your soul rest in artistic peace, Mokwepa. Cobrizi wa le Eazy. The mass in the word massive.”
Many fans expressed how deeply Presley resonated with ordinary South Africans through his storytelling, particularly in his portrayal of Cobra Mokoena in The River.
A Wife’s Loving Tribute
During the service, Charlaine Kirk also delivered a moving tribute to her husband. She remembered Presley as a fun-loving, kind-hearted, and ambitious man, committed to his family and passionate about his craft.
“He brought joy to everyone around him, always with that smile that could light up any room,” she said.
She described how deeply he valued his family and acting career, noting how he gave his all to both. Their children also shared an emotional audio message in which they bid farewell to their father.
A Legacy Celebrated by Colleagues
At a memorial held earlier in the week, The River co-creator Phathu Makwarela spoke fondly of Presley, describing him as a dedicated actor and a true friend. He also acknowledged actress Motshidi Motshekgwa, who played Chweneyagae’s on-screen mother in The River, highlighting their strong on-screen chemistry and storytelling power.
South Africans across the nation continue to pay tribute to the actor, whose contribution to film and television captured the soul of the country. Fans, friends, and fellow actors have all echoed a similar sentiment — that Presley Chweneyagae was not just a gifted performer, but a person who truly connected with the people.
As his family and the country lay him to rest, his legacy in South African entertainment remains firmly cemented. Rest in peace, Presley Chweneyagae — your light will never be forgotten.
