Johannesburg – Presley Chweneyagae, the South African actor who won the international recognition for his main role in the 2005 film “Tsotsi”, which won the first prize of the South Africa Academy for the best foreign language film, has died. I was 40 years old.
His MLA talent agency confirmed on Tuesday the death of Chweneyagae and said South Africa had lost one of his “more talented and beloved actors.”
“His passion for empowering the next generation of artists will remain an integral part of their legacy,” said the CEO of MLA, Nina Morris Lee, in a statement. She did not give details about the cause of death.
Chweneyagae’s three decades career covered theater, television and cinema.
His award -winning performance in “Tsotsi”, based on the 1961 novel of the preeminent playwright of South Africa, Athol Fugard and directed by Gavin Hood, catapulted him to international stardom.
Chweneyagae was also a talented writer and director, co -authorship of the internationally acclaimed theater play “relativity” with Paul Grootboom.
The South African government paid tribute to Chweneyagae, praising its excellent contribution to film, television and theater fraternity.
“The nation cries the loss of a talented narrator whose talent illuminated our screens and hearts,” the government said in an X. “His legacy will live through the powerful stories he told.”
The South Africa Film and Television Awards organization, known as Safta, paid tribute to Chweneyagae, calling him a “true legend of South African cinema” in X.
“Rest in power … A powerful interpreter whose talent left an indelible brand on our screens and in our hearts,” Safta published.
The Secretary General of the ANC, the party that dominated South African policy for 30 years, offered its condolences.
Fikile Mbalula described Chweneyagae as a “South African cinema and theater giant.”
“His legacy in ‘Tsotsi’ ”, the river ‘, and beyond will live. Condolences to his family, friends and all who were touched by his brilliance,” said Mbalula.
