The performing arts industry still finds itself in a state of shock following the passing of Mahikeng-born actor, Presley Chweneyagae.
Presley was best known for his role in the Oscar-winning film, Tsotsi. The actor is reported to have died in the early hours of Tuesday morning, with the news sending instant shockwaves throughout the entertainment industry.
Tributes have since streamed in from various parts of the country in remembrance of his legacy and celebrating a life well-lived.
Among those who reflected on his life was his fellow Tsotsi castmate Terry Pheto, who admitted to being shocked after hearing the news.
“I’m shocked and saddened by the news of Presley’s sudden passing. My heart goes out to his family and the rest of our friends and colleagues in the film industry. We shared an unforgettable moment when we won an Oscar. It’s a moment I will forever cherish. May his soul rest in peace,” she wrote.
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Meanwhile, it appears that the thespian not only had an impact on the lives of those who came to witness his performance, but on those in political spheres as well.
In a post of their own, MK member Floyed Shivambu and the party extended their condolences.
He wrote: “Rest in Peace Presley Chweneyagae! It’s difficult to untimely lose talented young people who still have a lot to offer to the craft! You ran the race and left too soon. Condolences to family, colleagues, and friends!”
Rest in Peace Presley Chweneyagae! It’s difficult to untimely lose talented young people who still had a lot to offer to the craft! You ran the race and left too soon. Condolences to family, colleagues and friends! ?? pic.twitter.com/VydC65qYxe
— Floyd Shivambu (@FloydShivambu) May 27, 2025
Reflecting on their last moments together on Sunday, the South African playwright and director Aubrey Sekhabi said that he was in high spirits on Sunday evening after seeing Sjava perform live at the State Theatre in Pretoria, little did they know that it would be his last.
In conversation with SowetanLive, he recalled: “Neither of us knew that those would be his last hugs. We were together until the early hours of Sunday morning. He did not want to go home and insisted that we play him the song Ndoko Mane by Norman Chauke. He was okay. He was the Presley we knew.”
Meanwhile, the cause of death remains unknown.
