Black Panther actress Connie Chiume has died, per the New York Post. She was 72.
On Tuesday (August 6), Chiume's family said she died in a hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa.
“The Chiume family regrets to inform you of the passing of the internationally acclaimed award-winning actress, Connie Chiume,” the family said in a statement shared on Instagram.
“Connie Chiume passed on at Garden City Hospital today on the 6th August 2024," the statement continued. "The family asks for privacy during this difficult period. The family will communicate further details.”
Chiume's son, Nongelo, said his mom was “admitted for a medical procedure” before her death, per South African news network Newzroom.
“She was recovering well, but unfortunately today we caught the news of her passing,” Nongelo said.
The late actress' son added that the family "can't confirm" details of Chiume’s death yet, but they “will constantly be communicating on any updates that they need to share with the broader public.”
“We want her to be remembered as a person who gave her all through her talents. We want her to be remembered as someone who was selfless and someone who always wanted to see the next person doing great and believing in their God-given talents," Nongelo said.
Chiume, a South African native, won awards for her roles in Soul City and Zone 14 before portraying tribal leader Zawavari in 2018's Black Panther. She reprised the role in the 2022 sequel Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
The actress also played Simba's mother, Sarabi, in Beyoncé’s 2020 musical film Black Is King.
The South African government shared a statement on X, formerly Twitter, in remembrance of Chiume.
“Our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of multi-award-winning and legendary actress Connie Chiume. Her outstanding work will always be remembered #RIPConnieChiume,” the tweet read.
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