Online Reporter
JOHANNESBURG. − He was the people’s actor who often portrayed roles that touched the hearts of South Africans.
And, there is no doubt that his ‘extra massive’ personality will be missed.
Actor Presley Chweneyagae has passed away at the age of 40.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of one of South Africa’s most gifted and beloved actors,” a statement from his talent management team, MLA confirms.
The news broke yesterday morning.
His talent was “Massive” as he would say, with a twang on the River as Thuso “Cobra” Mokoena.
From the eloquence, ambition, and loverboy energy to his playfulness and stern figure in the Mokoena household, Cobrizi wa Le Eazy captured the hearts of many across the country for the six seasons of the telenovela.
Recently, the star had gotten his own spinoff dramedy from the telenovela after its canning from Mzansi Magic which was received with excitement.
Both on and off screen, the actor poured his heart out into his work.
Presley first came into our homes as Tsotsi in 2005, a role that bagged South Africa’s first-ever Oscar Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
This proved that Presley’s performance resonated with audiences across the globe, cementing his place as a powerful and authentic voice in African cinema.
“His artistic journey began at the age of 10 when he joined the drama classes at the North West Arts Council (now The Mmabana Arts, Culture, Sports Foundation), setting him on a lifelong path of storytelling, expression, and excellence.
“Presley’s career spanned across theatre, television, and film with standout performances in MANDELA: Long Walk To Freedom (2013) and the award-winning television series The River (2018).
On stage, his presence was commanding and transformative, with roles in Hamlet as Hamlet, Julius Caesar as Mark Antony, and in Dikeledi as Orestes, (among others),” the statement further reads.
Behind the scenes, Presley was also a writer and award-winning director whose passion to empower the next generation of artists will remain an integral part of his legacy.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, extended family, colleagues, and all who knew and loved him.
“While we grieve the immense loss of a remarkable talent, we celebrate the light he brought to the world.”
Tributes and condolences have been pouring in on social media. − news24.com
Londile Moyo