South Africa’s entertainment industry has lost numerous talented individuals between 2019 and 2022, leaving fans and colleagues mourning the departure of beloved actors, musicians, and media personalities.
This article reflects on the lives and legacies of some of the most notable South African celebrities who passed away during this period, highlighting their contributions to the arts and culture.
South African Celebrities Who Died in 2022
The year 2022 was particularly heavy for South Africa’s entertainment scene, with several prominent figures passing away unexpectedly. Below are some of the notable names:
- Patrick Shai (January 22, 2022): A veteran actor known for roles in Soul City, Generations, and Zone 14, Patrick Shai died by suicide at age 65 in Dobsonville, Soweto, after battling severe depression. His death sparked conversations about mental health in South Africa.
- Kuli Roberts (February 9, 2022): Nomakula “Kuli” Roberts, a celebrated journalist, actress, and TV presenter, passed away at 49 after collapsing on the set of a new show in Kyalami. The cause of death was not publicly disclosed, though some speculated a heart attack.
- Riky Rick (February 23, 2022): The rapper and fashion icon Rikhado Makhado, known as Riky Rick, took his own life at 34 after a long battle with depression. His final tweet read, “I’ll come back a stronger man. This land is still my home.”
- DJ Dimplez (March 6, 2022): Hip-hop producer Tumi Mooi, aka DJ Dimplez, died at 40 from a sudden brain hemorrhage. He was known for hits like Way Up with Cassper Nyovest.
- James Bartlett (March 11, 2022): Best known for his role as David Genaro in Rhythm City, Bartlett died at 55 from cardiac arrest after being injured in a house break-in.
- Deborah Fraser (May 15, 2022): A gospel legend, Fraser passed away at 56 after a short illness, having battled diabetes for years.
- Siyabonga Zubane (May 2022): The Gomora actor, known for his role as Sdumo, passed away at a young age, with limited details available on the cause.
- Busi Lurayi (July 10, 2022): The actress, celebrated for her role as Tumi in How to Ruin Christmas, died suddenly at 36 at her Edenvale home. Reports noted visible bruises and bleeding, raising suspicions of foul play, though no official cause was confirmed.
- Mncedisi Shabangu (July 24, 2022): Known for playing Khulekani Ngobese in Rhythm City, Shabangu died at 53 after complaining of chest pains.
- DJ Sumbody (November 8, 2022): Amapiano artist Oupa John Sefoka was killed in a drive-by shooting in Woodmead, Sandton, at age 46.
- Pearl Shongwe (November 8, 2022): The Metro FM presenter passed away in her sleep at 35 in Johannesburg.
South African Celebrities Who Died in 2021
The year 2021 saw the loss of several icons, many impacted by health challenges, including COVID-19-related complications:
- Sam Phillips (January 16, 2021): A celebrated actor, director, and producer, Phillips died at 72. He starred in productions like Soul City and Isibaya.
- Menzi Ngubane (March 13, 2021): Known for his role as Ngamla in Generations, Ngubane died at 56 from a stroke after battling kidney disease and diabetes.
- Ben Kruger (May 26, 2021): The Binnelanders actor passed away at 64 due to COVID-19 complications.
- Shaleen Surtie-Richards (June 7, 2021): A household name for her role in Egoli: Place of Gold, Surtie-Richards died in her sleep at 66.
- Luzuko Nteleko (June 21, 2021): The Muvhango actor succumbed to stage 4 brain cancer at 36, having starred in shows like Isidingo and Ambitions.
- Steve Kekana (July 1, 2021): A legendary musician who popularized African pop, Kekana died at 63 in a Limpopo hospital, likely from COVID-19-related illness.
- Tsepo Tshola (July 15, 2021): The Lesotho-born singer and composer, known as the “Village Pope,” died at 67 from COVID-19 complications in Teyateyaneng, Lesotho.
- Killer Kau (August 9, 2021): Amapiano artist Sakhile Hlatshwayo died at 23 in a car accident alongside Mpura while traveling to a performance.
- Mpura (August 9, 2021): Mongezi Thomas Stuurman, an Amapiano DJ and producer, also died at 25 in the same accident as Killer Kau.
- Shona Ferguson (July 30, 2021): A prominent actor and producer known for The Queen and The River, Ferguson died at 47 from COVID-19 complications after being hospitalized.
South African Celebrities Who Died in 2020
The year 2020 was marked by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which claimed several lives in the entertainment industry:
- Candy Moloi (July 29, 2020): Known for her role as Vho-Makhadzi in Muvhango, Moloi passed away at 67. The cause of death was not widely publicized, but it coincided with the peak of the COVID-19 crisis.
- Mary Twala (July 4, 2020): A veteran actress with a career spanning decades, Twala died at 80. She was celebrated for roles in Sarafina! and Generations. Her death was attributed to natural causes, though some sources suggest COVID-19 complications.
- Vinolia Mashego (April 2020): The Jam Alley presenter, known as V-Mash, died at 56 in her sleep, with speculation pointing to COVID-19-related causes.
- Linda Mtoba’s Father (2020): While not a celebrity himself, the father of actress Linda Mtoba was noted in some reports as a loss in the broader entertainment community, though specific details are limited.
South African Celebrities Who Died in 2019
The year 2019 saw fewer high-profile celebrity deaths compared to later years, but the losses were no less significant:
- Celeste Ntuli’s Mother (2019): While not a celebrity, the passing of comedian Celeste Ntuli’s mother was widely mourned in the entertainment community, though specific details on the cause are scarce.
- Johnny Clegg (July 16, 2019): A global music icon known as the “White Zulu,” Clegg died at 66 from pancreatic cancer. His work with Juluka and Savuka bridged cultural divides during apartheid.
- Themba Ndlovu (2019): A lesser-known figure in some circles, Ndlovu’s contributions to the arts were noted in community tributes, though details on his passing are limited.
Honoring Their Legacies
The South African entertainment industry has been profoundly shaped by these talented individuals, whose work in film, music, and media continues to inspire. From Patrick Shai’s impactful performances to Riky Rick’s genre-defining music, their contributions remain etched in the nation’s cultural fabric. The losses, particularly those tied to mental health struggles like Shai and Riky Rick, underscore the importance of addressing mental health awareness, while others, like Shona Ferguson and Ben Kruger, highlight the devastating impact of COVID-19.
As we remember these stars, their legacies live on through their art, the lives they touched, and the stories they told. South Africa continues to celebrate their contributions while mourning their absence.
Note: For the latest updates on South African entertainment news, follow reputable sources like News24, IOL, and The South African.
14 South African Celebrities Who Tragically Passed Away In 2024
Remembering fallen stars! Here are 14 South African icons who died in 2024 and all the details of their cause of death.
2024 was a year of profound grief for South Africa, as the nation bid farewell to numerous beloved celebrities whose contributions shaped the cultural, sporting, and political landscape. From legendary athletes to iconic actors and musicians, their passing left an indelible void. Below, we reflect on these tragic losses and their lasting legacies, while offering ways to stay connected to South Africa’s vibrant entertainment scene.
1. Dingaan Thobela – The Rose of Soweto
Dingaan Thobela, affectionately known as “The Rose of Soweto,” passed away on April 29, 2024, at 57 after a battle with illness. A three-time boxing champion, Thobela’s legacy in South African sports remains unmatched, inspiring generations of athletes and fans.
2. Mpho Sebeng – A Rising Star
On May 5, 2024, actor Mpho Sebeng, known for his role in Savage Beauty, tragically died in a car accident in Potchefstroom at age 31. His untimely passing shocked the entertainment industry, leaving fans mourning a talent gone too soon.
3. Malome Vector, Lizwi Wokuqala, and Musa Damos Nkodo
A devastating car crash on July 24, 2024, claimed the lives of rapper Malome Vector, Lizwi Wokuqala, and Musa Damos Nkodo. These rising music stars were traveling to Lesotho when tragedy struck, leaving a significant gap in South Africa’s music scene.
4. Connie Chiume – A Global Icon
Veteran actress Connie Chiume, renowned for her roles in Black Panther and Gomora, passed away on August 6, 2024, at 72. Her death in a Johannesburg hospital sent shockwaves globally, as fans celebrated her contributions to film and television.
5. Zanele Mbokazi – Voice of Inspiration
Ukhozi FM presenter and Crown Gospel Awards founder Zanele Mbokazi lost her battle with lung cancer on August 12, 2024, at 52. Diagnosed in May, her legacy in gospel and broadcasting continues to inspire.
6. Thabiso Sikwane – A Broadcasting Legend
Thabiso Sikwane, a revered radio and TV personality, passed away on August 31, 2024, just before her 50th birthday due to a sudden illness. Her warmth and professionalism left a lasting mark on South African media.
7. Mapaputsi (Sandile Ngwenya) – Kwaito Pioneer
Kwaito legend Mapaputsi, born Sandile Ngwenya, died on September 5, 2024, after a short illness. Known for hits like Izinja, his influence on South African music remains profound.
8. Darlington “Papa G” Michaels – TV Icon
Darlington Michaels, beloved for his role as “Papa G” on Isidingo, passed away on September 13, 2024, at 78 after hospitalization. His vibrant characters defined South African television.
9. Umfundisi uNtshebe (Philani Mandlenkosi Mabanga)
Comedian and rapper Umfundisi uNtshebe passed away in his sleep on September 13, 2024. His unique blend of humor and music captivated audiences, leaving fans in disbelief.
10. Sello Motloung – A Thespian’s Legacy
Seasoned actor Sello Motloung died suddenly on September 15, 2024, at 53. His contributions to South African film and TV, including The Estate, earned him widespread respect.
11. Timmy Kwebulana – Stage and Screen Veteran
Timmy Kwebulana, an 83-year-old thespian, passed away on September 19, 2024, after a brief illness. His illustrious career enriched South African theater and television.
12. Willie Matlawa – Voice of Sepedi
SABC’s Willie Matlawa, a Sepedi presenter, died on September 29, 2024, a year into retirement. His 40-year career made him a household name in South African broadcasting.
13. Solly Moholo – Gospel Giant
Gospel star Solly Moholo passed away on October 2, 2024, at 65 after a brief illness. His uplifting music touched generations, cementing his legacy in South African gospel.
14. Tito Mboweni – A Political Titan
Former Finance Minister and Reserve Bank Governor Tito Mboweni died on October 12, 2024, at 65 after a short illness. His contributions to South Africa’s economy and social media presence left a lasting impact.
Conclusion
The loss of these iconic figures in 2024 has left South Africa mourning, but their legacies endure through their contributions to sports, entertainment, and public life. As we honor their memory, let’s celebrate the vibrant culture they helped shape by staying connected to South Africa’s entertainment scene.
