Author: amr

The family of late actor Presley Chweneyagae has confirmed that he passed away due to natural causes, and no foul play is suspected.

Speaking to Kaya News on Wednesday, family spokesperson Mzwakhe Sigudla set the record straight and dismissed speculation that there may have been any foul play in Chweneyagae’s death.

Sigudla revealed that Chweneyagae abruptly had complications with his breathing, and paramedics were called to his home.

 

 

 

 
“He was attended to, which we really appreciate the professional nature in which the paramedics attended to the incident, and unfortunately, he couldn’t make it, so we just want to clear the air that it’s a natural death,” he said.

Watch the video below:

News of Chweneyagae’s death shocked the nation on Tuesday, 27 May 2025.

He was 40 years old.

His passing was confirmed by his agency, MLA, in an official statement saying, “It is with profound sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of one of South Africa’s most gifted and beloved actors, Presley Chweneyagae, at the age of 40.”

The award-winning Mafikeng-born actor was best known for his breakthrough performance in the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi and for his powerful performance as Thuso “Cobra” Mokoena in The River, which was cancelled in 2023 after 6 seasons.

Most recently, Chweneyagae made a long-awaited return to screens in the The River spin-off series, Cobrizi, where he reprised his role as “Cobra”.

Meanwhile, tributes continue to pour in on social media from fans and colleagues who have expressed their shock and grief following Chweneyagae’s passing.

Details around the memorial and funeral services are yet to be announced.

South Africa is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved actors, Presley Oageng Chweneyagae, who tragically passed away in the early hours of Tuesday morning at the age of 40. The news was confirmed by close friends of the actor, leaving fans, colleagues, and the entertainment industry in shock and mourning.

Chweneyagae rose to prominence with his powerful performance in the 2005 Oscar-winning South African film Tsotsi, directed by Gavin Hood. The film, which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, catapulted Chweneyagae into international stardom. In Tsotsi, he portrayed a troubled young gangster whose life takes a dramatic turn, a role that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. His performance in the film was hailed as raw, emotional, and compelling, establishing him as one of the country’s most talented and promising actors.

 

 

 

 

 
Following the success of Tsotsi, Chweneyagae’s career continued to flourish. He won his first Golden Horn Award at the inaugural South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) in 2006, a testament to his talent and the impact of his breakout role. Over the years, he continued to earn recognition for his versatile performances across both film and television.

One of his most well-known roles in recent years was that of Cobra in the popular South African television series The River. His portrayal of the charismatic yet flawed character earned him a new generation of fans and further cemented his status as a household name in local entertainment. The popularity of his character even led to the development of a spin-off series based on Cobra, showcasing the depth and appeal of his performance.

Beyond acting, Chweneyagae was known for his dedication to the arts and community upliftment. He was passionate about using theatre and storytelling as a means to educate and inspire young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. He often spoke openly about his own journey and the transformative power of the arts in his life.

Chweneyagae’s death marks a significant loss for South Africa’s cultural and creative industries. Colleagues and fans alike have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of his impactful work and warm personality. Tributes continue to pour in from across the country, reflecting the deep respect and admiration held for the actor.

As the country awaits more details surrounding his passing, the legacy Presley Chweneyagae leaves behind is undeniable. His contributions to South African cinema and television will continue to inspire generations of artists and audiences.

This is a developing story. Further updates will be shared as more information becomes available.

Tsotsi actor Presley Chweneyagae has died at age 40, his manager Nina Morris Lee confirmed in a statement on Tuesday.

Chweneyagae played the titular role in the Oscar winning local film in 2005.

 

 

 

 

 
He was also known for his award-winning performance as Thuso “Cobra” Mokoena in daily drama The River.

“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of one of South Africa’s most gifted and beloved actors, Presley Chweneyagae, at the age of 40,” the statement read.

“Born on October 19 1984 in Mahikeng, North West, Presley was destined for the stage and screen. His artistic journey began at the age of 10 when he joined drama classes at the North West Arts Council (now The Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sports Foundation), setting him on a lifelong path of storytelling, expression and excellence.

“He rose to international fame with his unforgettable performance in Tsotsi (2005), a role that helped bring home South Africa’s first ever Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Presley’s performance resonated with audiences across the globe, cementing his place as a powerful and authentic voice in African cinema.

It is with profound sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of one of South Africa’s most gifted and beloved actors, Presley Chweneyagae, at the age of 40

Statement

“Presley’s career spanned 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, Mark Antony in Julius Caesar, Bottom and Puck in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Orestes in Dikeledi (an adaptation of Electra), Relativity, Urban Reality, Jack in the Box, The Grandball, Silent Voice, Kalushi, Cards, Beautiful Things and more

“He was also a gifted writer and director, co-authoring the internationally acclaimed stage play Relativity with Paul Grootboom — later published by STE Publishers, and directing the award-winning production CELL NO 4.

“Presley was a longtime and cherished member of the MLA family — more than a client, he was a friend, a mentor to many, a beacon of creativity and perseverance. His passion for empowering 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. Details regarding memorial services will be shared in due course.”

Wiseman Mncube: A Legend in the Making!
Actor, playwright, singer, and director — Wiseman Mncube is a true powerhouse who brings every character to life with pure brilliance! 🙌✨
Want to know about his inspiring journey, background, family, and career highlights? 📚💬

Wiseman Mncube is a South African actor, playwright, singer, and director. Mncube is best known for his appearances in hit television serials such as “Gold Diggers,” “EHostela,” and “Uzalo.”

 

 
He completed his National Diploma in Drama from the Durban University of Technology (DUT) in 2011.His elder brother is Ntando Mncube, who played the role of “Bhekile” on the serial Ifalakhe. His younger brother Omega is also an actor, having played the popular role of “Phelelani” on Uzalo.His wife died in 2017, and he currently lives with his daughter, Lwandle.In February 2021, he welcomed another child, a son

During his time at DUT, he embarked on his acting journey in theatre. Among his notable theatrical performances were Nothing But the Truth, Horn of Sorrow, Meet Bro Six Two, Culture Clash, Amambazo The Musical, Have We Been Heard, and Mashu the Musical.

In November 2012, he both authored and directed The Weeping Candle, a play that garnered substantial acclaim. Mncube’s talents were acknowledged with the Best Production and Best Script awards at the IsiGcawu Festival. That same year, he earned the Best Newcomer Award at the Mercury Theatre Awards and secured the title of Best Actor at the Musho Festival. He also showcased his skills in Giving Birth to My Father, a play that led to him winning the Standard Bank Ovation Award.

In 2014, he achieved a triumphant trifecta of National Arts Festival (NAF) awards in Grahamstown. 2015 saw his appointment as one of the directors of the Musho Festival.

In 2016, he made his inaugural appearance on television in the drama series The Kingdom-UKhakhayi, taking on the character “Mfanufikile.” Subsequently, his popularity propelled him to a role in the e.tv telenovela Gold Diggers. The year 2018 witnessed his involvement in the

TV Mini-Series Liberty, portraying “Reggie.”

The following year, he graced the television screens with his presence in the serial EHostela, embodying the role of “Jama.” His exceptional performance earned him the prestigious Best Actor Award in the TV Drama category at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTA) in 2020. During the same year, he added another accolade to his collection at the Mzansi Viewers Choice Awards.

His journey also led him to the soap opera Uzalo, where he took on the supporting role of “Sibonelo.” In the mid of 2019, he extended his craft into the realm of feature films, notably The Turning Son, wherein he portrayed “Vusi Ndlovu,” and the 2020 film Rage of a Lioness, where he assumed the role of “Siya.”

In addition to his acting endeavours, he has showcased his musical talents as well. Collaborating with Vukani Khoza, he released the Gqom song Pick & Choose.

Wiseman was born in Ulundi, KwaZulu Natal. Born into a family of five siblings, acting runs in their bloodline. His older brother, Ntando Mncube, made his mark by portraying “Bhekile” in the series Ifalakhe. Adding to the family’s artistic prowess, his younger sibling Omega achieved fame through his role as “Phelelani” on Uzalo.

The precise calculation of Wiseman Mncube’s nett worth remains a mystery to the general public, and his age is somewhat elusive. According to certain sources, it is speculated that he was born in 1990. No one on his team, including him, has divulged the information. It seems that he has had quite a run of success starring in popular television shows in the country.

Shoki Mmola, a veteran actress, discusses how she balances her calling with her job. Despite the fact that it does not appear to be an easy existence, Shoki says it is one she has learned to accept.

Despite her hard career and recent divorce from her reportedly violent ex-husband, actor Sello Sebotsane, the Skeem Saam actress who plays Celia is overjoyed to be a practicing sangoma. Shoki tells Move! that she has recently graduated as a qualified traditional healer, which means she can now issue illness notes to anyone she consults with.

 

 

 
“I’m practicing full-time, and I have qualified to give people sick notes. Anyone that comes to me is registered as a traditional healer. It was quite an achievement,” she excitedly reveals.

She is the first to point out that her work as a sangoma has no working hours, but she assures that she manages just fine.

“I sacrifice sleep. When someone calls and needs you, you have to work. Lack some sleep and take a lot vitamins,” she explains.

When asked about her celeb status and being a sangoma, Shoki admits that she was worried that it would have a negative impact on her practice.

“I thought no one would take me seriously because now it’s becoming a celeb trend. I was born into this. It was given out of love, and I would do right by it,” she says.

The actress claims she is not a

celebrity sangoma since she did not respond to her calling because it was a fashion trend. The mother of two is hesitant to be labeled as a single mother.

“I’m not a single mom,” she insists firmly. “I want my lovely daughters to look at me and see a great mom,” she continues.

Shoki tells us that despite caring for her girls, a rigorous acting profession, and being on call as a sangoma, she manages to accomplish it all in the 24 hours we all have.Lastly, the actress revealed that she is also good at preaching; she was born a preacher, and thank God she is enjoying the life of being a mom, sangoma, and church person.

I was raised in a home of faith, I can call myself a pastor (laughing) , I know how to preach, and most importantly, I give thanks to God for my gifts, which I always wish to showcase both on and off screen.

When the singer posted photos of herself with her lookalike on social media, fans of radio and television were unable to differentiate the Grammy Award winner Nomcebo Zikode from Masechaba Ndlovu.

Many have commented on how much the two successful ladies resemble each other, with many suggesting that the dads ought to take the blame. It doesn’t help that the two ladies have identical voices and the same haircut as of right now.

 

 
In a recent interview with Nomcebo at Newsroom Afrika, Masechaba discussed a wide range of topics, including her new song Izono Zami.

Taking time to pose for pictures after the interview, Nomcebo posted them on her social media platform Instagram, captioning her post:

“Let’s play a little game called “Who is who?” Let me know who is who in the comments & we will see who will get it wrong.”

Masechaba posted two videos on her profile that resembled her. In a particular video, the women take turns speaking to Nomcebo as Masechaba and Nomcebo compliment the TV host on “winning” a Grammy Award.

In a second video, the “twins” get up to hug each other after their interview. Internet users could not believe how much the two looked alike, taking time to comment on both ladies’ social media pages.

“Guys you look alike haibo (no ways). Are you sure you guys are not related?”

“Twin sisters, your parents should explain lol, no way I love you, family,”

For a minute, I thought Masechaba was you, and you were your sister or something,”

👑 DJ Tira’s Son Samkelo Shezi Ready to Say “I Do”? | Meet His Alleged Girlfriend Hlengiwe Dlamini 💍🔥
Mzansi is buzzing after a surprising yet heartwarming studio snap of Samkelo Shezi — son of the legendary DJ Tira — surfaced online. But it’s not just the music talk that’s trending… it’s love talk too! 💖
According to sources close to the family, Samkelo recently introduced his alleged girlfriend, Hlengiwe Dlamini, to his famous father — and get this: the young man reportedly told DJ Tira he’s ready to take things to the next level… as in marriage! 😱💍

 

The couple was spotted looking cozy and confident in what appeared to be a studio meet-up with DJ Tira, sparking speculation that a serious family introduction was underway.
🔍 Who is Hlengiwe Dlamini? While not much is publicly known about Hlengiwe yet, she’s already winning hearts with her down-to-earth style and natural charm. Fans have taken to social media praising the couple’s vibe and elegance.
🎤 DJ Tira has yet to comment on the relationship publicly, but knowing the supportive dad he is, Mzansi is eager to see if wedding bells will be ringing soon!
📣 What do you think, Mzansi? Is Samkelo too young to get married or is love just love? Let’s hear your take!👇

Uzalo fans, prepare to have your hearts melted! What began as an on-screen romance between Nonka and Kwanda has blossomed into a real-life love story—and now, a sweet family moment has just stolen the spotlight. 🎬❤️

 
Sources close to the couple reveal that Thuthuka Mthembu and Sandile “Masandi” Mfusi recently celebrated a huge milestone: their daughter’s 1st birthday! 🎈👶 While the couple has always been tight-lipped about their relationship, those close to them say the celebration was intimate, filled with love, and deeply emotional.

“They’re both very hands-on parents,” said a close friend of the couple. “Watching them grow into this new chapter as young parents has been beautiful. Their baby girl is bubbly, healthy, and absolutely adored.”

Although no official photos have been shared publicly—true to their private nature—those who attended the birthday celebration say it was a warm affair. Think pink balloons, a custom princess cake, matching family outfits, and a few close family and industry friends gathered to shower the little one with love.

❤️ A Love That Keeps Blossoming

Thuthuka and Masandi’s relationship first sparked when Masandi joined Uzalo, and their connection was undeniable from the start. Though they’ve avoided the media spotlight, sources have long whispered about their deep bond, built on mutual respect, faith, and shared values.

Now, with their daughter turning one, fans are gushing over how their love story continues to evolve—this time with the joys (and challenges) of parenthood.

When reached for comment, both stars remained reserved.

“My private life is private,” Thuthuka said gently. “I’m just thankful for the love and support people show.”

Masandi echoed her sentiment with a chuckle: “There are things we prefer to keep sacred. Family is one of them.

Elizabeth Serunye is a multi-talented individual hailing from South Africa. She has made a name for herself as an actress and gospel singer, captivating audiences with her performances. One of her most memorable roles was portraying the formidable Mapaseka Montsho, the Queen of the Kitchen at the Cherry Blossom guest house, in the popular SABC2 sitcom Moferefere Lenyalong from 2008–2012.

She’s quite the star in the South African television drama scene, having graced our screens in popular series like Yizo Yizo and Generations. And let’s not forget her impressive film credits, with standout performances in movies like Jerusalem and Skin.

 
Not too long ago, the Skeem Saam actress delighted her followers with an Instagram post revealing her recent graduation from the Doctor of Philosophy in Community Development degree at Trinity International Bible University.

With great joy, Elizabeth Serunye takes to her Instagram to announce the arrival of a new addition to her family—she’s officially a grandma now! The talented actress kept her followers intrigued as she shared a glimpse of her grandchild, capturing a heartwarming moment of her cradling the new-born on a cosy sofa.FotoJet – 2024-05-04T205110.918-min

Elizabeth Serunye is a multi-talented individual hailing from South Africa. She has made a name for herself as an actress and gospel singer, captivating audiences with her performances. One of her most memorable roles was portraying the formidable Mapaseka Montsho, the Queen of the Kitchen at the Cherry Blossom guest house, in the popular SABC2 sitcom Moferefere Lenyalong from 2008–2012.

She’s quite the star in the South African television drama scene, having graced our screens in popular series like Yizo Yizo and Generations. And let’s not forget her impressive film credits, with standout performances in movies like Jerusalem and Skin.

Not too long ago, the Skeem Saam actress delighted her followers with an Instagram post revealing her recent graduation from the Doctor of Philosophy in Community Development degree at Trinity International Bible University.

With great joy, Elizabeth Serunye takes to her Instagram to announce the arrival of a new addition to her family—she’s officially a grandma now! The talented actress kept her followers intrigued as she shared a glimpse of her grandchild, capturing a heartwarming moment of her cradling the new-born on a cosy sofa.

Social media users flooded the comment section to shower their congratulations on the newly minted grandmother. The outpouring of love and support from followers was heartwarming, as the actress expressed her deep gratitude for the joy of being able to see her grandchildren at this stage of her life.

Prior to her role as Jacobeth Thobakgale in Skeem Saam, Elizabeth Serunye had a different career path. Before becoming a beloved actress and starting a family, she used to sell cakes. Her journey from being a cake vendor to gracing our screens is truly remarkable.

In an interview with Sunday World, the beloved actress Elizabeth Serunye reveals that her journey to becoming the iconic Skeem Saam character Jacobeth Thobakgale was filled with various ventures, from selling cakes to working in retail.

In a tender and emotional moment, Rachel Kolisi, the estranged wife of Springboks captain Siya Kolisi, opened up about her feelings as Siya’s younger sister prepared for her matric dance — a milestone that brought a flood of memories and emotions.

Rachel shared the heartwarming moment on social media, expressing deep pride and nostalgia as Liphelo, one of the two siblings she and Siya adopted in 2014, got ready for her big night. The Kolisis took in Liyema and Liphelo more than a decade ago, raising them as their own after difficult circumstances within the family.Though Rachel and Siya are now living apart amid their public separation, she remains closely bonded with the children. Her reflections revealed both joy in witnessing Liphelo’s growth and a quiet sorrow as life milestones continue amid personal transitions.

 
“I feel so proud watching her become the young woman she is today,” Rachel wrote. “Moments like these remind me how far we’ve come as a family.”

The post quickly resonated with fans and followers, who praised Rachel for her unwavering support and motherly devotion, despite the challenges in her personal life.

The Kolisi family has long captured the hearts of South Africans, both for their resilience and their story of unity and love beyond blood ties. As Liphelo took her steps into this next chapter, it was clear the bonds that matter most remain strong