Connie Chiume, South African Actress Known For Her Role In Black Panther, Passes Away At 72

As a lifestyle expert reflecting on the life and career of Connie Chiume, I am truly saddened by her passing at the age of 72. Despite her illness, she lived an extraordinary life that spanned across various fields, from teaching to acting.


Actress Connie Chiume, known for her role in Black Panther, sadly passed away at the age of 72 on Tuesday, August 6th. Her family shared this news through a post on her Instagram, revealing that she had been unwell for some time.

In the statement, her kids thanked the healthcare team for their extraordinary attention towards Chiume during her last days. They also mentioned that information about the actress’s memorial and funeral services would be announced on her social media accounts shortly.

As depicted in a BBC biography, Chiume started off her professional journey as an educator prior to venturing into showbiz. Her early performances can be seen on TV series such as Rhythm City and Zone 14.

In 2018, Chiume made her debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as a tribal leader in Black Panther and its 2022 sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. In an interview with South Africa’s Sunday Times in 2022, she admitted that she hadn’t anticipated the film’s success, stating, “I went to an audition without knowing what I was trying out for.” She remembered being cast as an African character addressing the nation, so she donned traditional African attire, memorized her lines, and delivered a strong performance.

A musical film, Black Is King, and the drama series Gomora are some of her other acting credits.

Beyond receiving several South African Film and TV Awards, the South African Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, bestowed the Living Legend award upon Chiume in March. In his statement following her passing, he described her as a “symbol of strength, resilience, and elegance.” He further emphasized that her performances brought “joy, inspiration, and a feeling of national pride” to countless South Africans.

“In a touching gesture, the South African government expressed their sincere sympathies on platform X for the family, friends, and peers of the esteemed and multi-award-winning actress Connie Chiume. Her unforgettable contributions to acting will continue to be celebrated. #RestInPeaceConnieChiume.”

In a heartfelt Instagram tribute after her passing, Connie Chiume’s Black Panther co-star Lupita Nyong’o paid homage to her by saying, “We’ve lost an immense source of wisdom! Rest in peace and strength, @conniechiume.”

Winston Duke expressed on X: “Farewell, my cherished sister Connie Chiume. I appreciate the strength and inspiring performances you consistently delivered throughout your extensive, distinguished career. May you rest in peace.”

Chiume is survived by her four children two sons and two daughters.

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2024-08-08 09:39