South Africa is mourning the untimely death of acclaimed actor Presley Chweneyagae, who passed away suddenly on Tuesday, May 27, 2025. His passing has left the nation in shock, with tributes pouring in from fellow actors, fans, and loved ones.
Chweneyagae, best known for his iconic role in the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi and more recently in Cobrizi, had shown no signs of illness prior to his death. Family spokesperson Muziwakhe Sigudla, speaking to Newzroom 405 on Wednesday, May 28, shed light on the late actor’s final day and provided an update on how his wife and mother are coping with the tragic loss.
Family Reflects on Presley’s Final Moments
According to Sigudla, the family spent time with Presley the day before he died. He appeared healthy and full of life, making his sudden passing all the more difficult to comprehend.
“We had time with him yesterday; there were no signs that something like this could happen. He’s always been very healthy and was doing well. That’s why this is so shocking,” Sigudla explained.
Chweneyagae was also preparing for a return trip to the United Arab Emirates in July, which added to the disbelief surrounding his death.
Wife and Mother Grieve a National Icon
Sigudla shared that Presley’s wife and mother are both physically well but emotionally devastated. His wife is especially heartbroken, having lost not only a husband but also the father of her children and a lifelong partner.
“Well, the wife is very devastated. You know how it is to lose the husband—not just a partner, but the father of your kids. The mother is in good health, yes, but very, very heartbroken. Like the rest of us, they are struggling to come to terms with this loss,” Sigudla said.
He emphasized that Presley was more than a family man—he was a national treasure who had left an indelible mark on South African arts and culture.
“We’ve lost someone who brought the first Oscar to this country, someone who was more than just a colleague or a friend—he was a hero.”
Last Video Shared by Fellow Actor
Actor Meshack Mavuso Magabane also paid tribute to Chweneyagae by sharing a video clip of their final interaction. Taken on Saturday, May 24, the video shows the two actors at the State Theatre. Magabane expressed disbelief over Presley’s passing, recalling how joyful he had been just days before his death.
“I still can’t believe he’s gone. He was so happy that day,” Magabane wrote in the caption.
A Nation in Mourning
As South Africans continue to grapple with the loss of one of their most beloved actors, the outpouring of support for Chweneyagae’s family has been overwhelming. Messages of condolence continue to flood social media as fans remember his legendary performances and lasting impact.
Presley Chweneyagae is survived by his wife, children, and mother. He will be remembered as a trailblazing actor, a loving family man, and a true icon of South African cinema.
