Black Panther Star Connie Chiume Tragically Passes Away at 72 – You Won’t Believe the Legacy She Left!

Connie Chiume, a South African actress well-recognized in the United States for her roles in Marvel’s “Black Panther” films, has passed away at the age of 72.

The actress’s family made the announcement of her death on Instagram, revealing that she passed away on Tuesday in a hospital in Johannesburg.

“It is with deep regret that the Chiume Family announces the demise of the globally renowned, award-winning actress Connie Chiume,” read the family’s statement. “Connie Chiume, aged 72, breathed her last at Garden City Hospital. … We kindly request privacy during this challenging time.”

Chiume had a long-standing acting career in South Africa, becoming a household name following the end of apartheid through her roles in the widely watched TV series “Inkom’ Edla Yodwa” and the soap opera “Rhythm City.” She showcased her acting prowess in various TV shows and films, effortlessly switching between drama and comedy. Her stellar performances won her several prestigious South African film and television awards.

Born on June 5, 1952, in Welkom, South Africa, Chiume was the fifth child among nine siblings. Before embarking on her acting career, she reportedly trained as a nurse and worked as a teacher. In the late 1970s, she relocated to Greece to join the cast of the musical “Sola Sola.”

In 2022, she reflected on her journey in the acting industry and the evolution of the South African film scene.

“When I began my career, there wasn’t even a TV channel for Black people,” Chiume shared with News24. “We’ve made some strides in that regard, and our pay has significantly improved compared to those days. However, there’s still much to be done to transform the industry.”

Chiume gained international fame for her portrayal of the mining tribe elder Zawavari in Marvel’s “Black Panther.”

Speaking to South Africa’s Sunday Times, Chiume revealed that she was unaware of what she was auditioning for when she tried out for “Black Panther.”

“I attended an audition without knowing what it was for,” Chuime recalled. “I was given a script to read. It was evident that this character was an African addressing her people. I wore my African attire, memorized my lines, and gave it my best shot.”

Despite her role being minor, she told News24 that working alongside Hollywood A-listers like Michael B. Jordan and Angela Bassett brought her the recognition she had always yearned for.

The film, which debuted in 2018, shattered several box-office records, becoming the top-grossing film directed by a Black filmmaker.

Chiume reprised her role in the sequel, “Wakanda Forever,” in 2022.

The actress also featured in Beyoncé’s visual album, “Black Is King,” based on “The Lion King,” where she played the role of Simba’s mother, Sarabi.

Her most recent roles were in South African Netflix productions, including the film “Heart of the Hunter,” which was released earlier this year, and the series “Soon Comes Night” in February.

Chiume leaves behind three children and five grandchildren.