South Africans pay tribute to acting 'icon' Chweneyagae who died age 40

South Africans are mourning the loss of actor Presley Chweneyagae. He died at 40 years old.

His family reported that he passed away from natural causes. He had been experiencing breathing problems before his death.

Family spokesperson Mzwakhe Sigudla said paramedics attended to him, but he "couldn't make it."

Chweneyagae was born in 1984 in South Africa's North-West Province. He gained international fame for his role in the 2005 film Tsotsi. This film won South Africa its first Oscar for best foreign language film.

Tsotsi is a powerful crime drama about gang life in South Africa. The film features a mix of South African languages, including Tsotsitaal, spoken mainly in townships.

Film critic Stephen Aspeling called Tsotsi a "landmark film." He noted it came at a crucial time for South Africa's film industry and its global presence.

Aspeling explained that the movie addresses post-apartheid issues like social inequality, poverty, and crime. Before Tsotsi, South Africa had little representation at the Oscars.

After the film's release, director Gavin Hood shared that Chweneyagae had never acted before being cast. Hood highlighted that Chweneyagae came from a "tough neighborhood."

In a podcast interview, Chweneyagae discussed his acting technique. He emphasized drawing on personal experiences to enhance believability.

He stated that acting was his only profession since starting with a play in 1998. Aspeling also praised Chweneyagae’s versatility in the film iNumber Number, where he played a police officer.

His agency described him as a "South African icon" and one of the country's most beloved actors.

The South African government honored him as "a gifted storyteller" whose talent lit up screens and hearts.

Chweneyagae appeared in the Nelson Mandela biopic Long Walk to Freedom in 2013 and various theater productions.

The South African Film and Television Awards called him a "true legend" and "powerhouse performer."

The Ministry of Sports, Art and Culture recognized his contributions to popular series River and Cobrizzi.

Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie stated they mourned the loss of this true trailblazer—a storyteller who captured the nation's soul through his craft.

In 2020, on the MacG podcast, Chweneyagae expressed his hopes for his legacy. He wanted to be remembered as an actor who loved his work and respected others.