News / National
Tsotsi star Presley Chweneyagae dies at 40
28 May 2025 at 11:11hrs | Views
Presley Chweneyagae, the acclaimed South African actor best known for his leading role in the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi, has died at the age of 40, his manager Nina Morris Lee confirmed in a statement on Tuesday.
Chweneyagae rose to international fame in 2005 when he starred as the titular character in Tsotsi, a film that won South Africa its first Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. His portrayal deeply resonated with audiences worldwide, establishing him as a significant figure in African cinema.
Born on October 19, 1984, in Mahikeng, North West, Chweneyagae's passion for the arts began early. At the age of 10, he joined drama classes at the North West Arts Council (now The Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sports Foundation), a path that would shape his lifelong dedication to storytelling and performance.
Throughout his career, Presley showcased his versatility across theatre, television, and film. Notable roles include his award-winning performance as Thuso "Cobra" Mokoena in the popular TV drama The River and appearances in Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013). On stage, his powerful presence was felt in productions such as Hamlet, Julius Caesar, A Midsummer Night's Dream, and many others. He was also a gifted writer and director, co-authoring the internationally acclaimed play Relativity and directing the award-winning production CELL NO 4.
Nina Morris Lee described Presley as "more than a client" - a friend, mentor, and beacon of creativity whose passion for empowering young artists formed a vital part of his legacy.
"We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, extended family, colleagues and all who knew and loved him," the statement read. "While we grieve the immense loss of a remarkable talent, we celebrate the light he brought to the world. Details regarding memorial services will be shared in due course."
Presley Chweneyagae's death marks a profound loss for the arts community, but his contributions to film, theatre, and television will continue to inspire generations to come.
Chweneyagae rose to international fame in 2005 when he starred as the titular character in Tsotsi, a film that won South Africa its first Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. His portrayal deeply resonated with audiences worldwide, establishing him as a significant figure in African cinema.
Born on October 19, 1984, in Mahikeng, North West, Chweneyagae's passion for the arts began early. At the age of 10, he joined drama classes at the North West Arts Council (now The Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sports Foundation), a path that would shape his lifelong dedication to storytelling and performance.
Throughout his career, Presley showcased his versatility across theatre, television, and film. Notable roles include his award-winning performance as Thuso "Cobra" Mokoena in the popular TV drama The River and appearances in Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013). On stage, his powerful presence was felt in productions such as Hamlet, Julius Caesar, A Midsummer Night's Dream, and many others. He was also a gifted writer and director, co-authoring the internationally acclaimed play Relativity and directing the award-winning production CELL NO 4.
Nina Morris Lee described Presley as "more than a client" - a friend, mentor, and beacon of creativity whose passion for empowering young artists formed a vital part of his legacy.
"We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, extended family, colleagues and all who knew and loved him," the statement read. "While we grieve the immense loss of a remarkable talent, we celebrate the light he brought to the world. Details regarding memorial services will be shared in due course."
Presley Chweneyagae's death marks a profound loss for the arts community, but his contributions to film, theatre, and television will continue to inspire generations to come.
Source - NewsDay
