Connie Chiume, the celebrated South African actress renowned for her roles in Black Panther and its sequel, has died at the age of 72. Her family shared the news on Instagram, noting she passed away at Johannesburg’s Garden City Hospital. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Chiume’s career began after working as a teacher and nurse, transitioning into acting in 1977. She gained prominence with her role in the 1989 TV series Inkom’ Edla Yodwa, and later became known for her performance in the musical Sola Sola in Greece. Her notable roles include appearances in Rhythm City, Zone 14, and I Dreamed of Africa.
She reprised her role in the 2022 sequel to Black Panther as an Elder of the Mining Tribe and was also featured in Beyoncé’s Black Is King. Chiume received numerous accolades throughout her career, including the SAFTA Best Supporting Actress award in 2009 and the NTVA Avanti Award for Best Actress in 2000. Her family has requested privacy as they mourn her passing.
