Connie Chiume, an actress who starred in both of the Black Panther movies, has sadly died aged 72.
The South African star and filmmaker died on Tuesday at Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg after a period of illness, her family announced in a statement on her Instagram page, cited by Sky News.
“The Chiume family regrets to inform you of the passing of the internationally acclaimed award-winning actress, Connie Chiume,” the statement began.
“Connie Chiume passed on at Garden City Hospital today on the 6th August 2024. The family asks for privacy during this difficult period. The family will communicate further details.”
In a follow-up post, the family referenced the Connie Chiume Foundation, which the actress founded in 2020 to support creative professionals.
They expressed their “heartfelt gratitude for all the messages of support and condolences during this difficult time.”
The statement also included a note of appreciation from her children: “Her children would like to express their deep appreciation to the doctors and nursing staff who provided exceptional care during her stay.”
Chiume portrayed Zawavari, a former leader of the Mining Tribe, in the 2018 blockbuster Black Panther.
The film, starring the late Chadwick Boseman as T’Challa, was the first superhero movie ever nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars and grossed $1.3 billion worldwide.
In the 2022 sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Chiume’s character became a Wakanda elder, participating in the funeral passage for T’Challa and playing a role when Shuri (Letitia Wright) assumed leadership.
Beyond the Marvel universe, Chiume appeared in popular South African series such as Gomora, Seriously Single, and Queen Sono. She also featured in Beyoncé’s musical film Black Is King.
Chiume’s career was marked by numerous accolades, including a South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the series Zone 14 in 2009.
Speaking to IOL in 2018, Chiume described her experience working on Black Panther as “inspirational.”
“I am very excited to be a part of this production. It truly has been an inspiration working with such big stars and being directed by a young and talented man like Ryan Coogler,” she said.
As per the Mirror, the South African government has paid tribute to Chiume in a heartfelt statement.
“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,” it read.