South African actor Presley Chweneyagae, known for ‘Tsotsi’, dies at 40

Presley Chweneyagae, a renowned South African actor best known for his lead role in the Oscar-winning 2005 film ‘Tsotsi,’ has died at the age of 40. His passing was confirmed by his talent agency, MLA, which praised his contributions to the arts and commitment to nurturing young talent. Although the cause of death was not disclosed, tributes have poured in from across the country. Chweneyagae’s portrayal in ‘Tsotsi,’ a film based on a novel by Athol Fugard and directed by Gavin Hood, earned international acclaim and elevated South African cinema on the global stage. His career spanned nearly three decades across theatre, television, and film, including roles in productions like ‘The River.’ He also co-wrote the acclaimed play ‘Relativity’ with Paul Grootboom. The South African government, the South African Film and Television Awards, and ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula all paid tribute to Chweneyagae, lauding him as a beloved storyteller and a powerful presence in the nation’s cultural tapestry.