The South African film and television industry is reeling from the tragic loss of one of its brightest stars.
Presley Chweneyagae, the multi-award-winning actor whose unforgettable performance in the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, died from natural causes on Tuesday. He was 40.
Actress Terry Pheto, Chweneyagae’s Tsotsi co-star, said he could bring levity to even the heaviest moments on set.
“Shooting Tsotsi was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We were young, hungry and full of dreams. Presley had this quiet intensity that made him magnetic on screen. But off-screen, he was funny, generous and deeply committed to the work.
“In between the most emotional scenes, he’d have us all laughing. That was his gift — reminding us that even in hard moments, there’s space for light.
“During the press tour, I had just lost my brother and very few people knew I was grieving. Presley held my hand through it all. He was a true teammate — quietly stepping in when needed. I hope people remember his heart, not just his talent. He loved this country. He loved the craft. And he loved his people.”
Veteran actor Hlomla Dandala, who worked with Chweneyagae on The River, echoed those sentiments.
“Presley was immensely talented and we all knew it. He made S’Pitori cool — he put Pretoria’s vernac on the map. If South Africa had a Walk of Fame, Presley would’ve had his star. It’s heartbreaking that the people who’ll benefit from his legacy aren’t his family, but the industry gatekeepers.”
A memorial service for Chweneyagae will be held on Tuesday at the Mmabatho Convention Centre in Mahikeng, North West, at 11am. His funeral will take place on Friday at the Opera Theatre, State Theatre in Tshwane.
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