Award-winning actor Presley Chweneyagae has died
South African actor, Presley Chweneyagae, has passed away at the age of 40. Chweneyagae rose to fame after his feature in the Oscar-winning South African film “Tsotsi”.
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Presley’s career spanned theatre, television, and film, with standout performances in Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013) and the award-winning television series The River (2018).
On stage, his presence was commanding and transformative, with roles in: Hamlet in Hamlet, Mark Antony in Julius Caesar, Bottom and Puck in A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Orestes in Dikeledi [an adaptation of Electra].
He was also a gifted writer and director, co-authoring the internationally acclaimed stage play Relativity with Paul Grootboom – later published by STE Publishers and directing the award-winning production CELL NO 4.
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His death was confirmed by Moonyeenn Lee Associates [MLA], the talent agency that represented him.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of one of South Africa’s most gifted and beloved actors, Presley Chweneyagae, at the age of 40,” read the statement.
“Born on October 19, 1984, in Mafikeng, North West Province, Presley was destined for the stage and screen. His artistic journey began at the age of 10 when he joined drama classes at the North West Arts Council [now The Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sports Foundation], setting him on a lifelong path of storytelling, expression, and excellence.
“Presley was a long time and cherished member of the MLA family. More than a client, he was a friend, a mentor to many, a beacon of creativity and perseverance. His passion for empowering the next generation of artists will remain an integral part of his legacy.”
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, extended family, colleagues. While we grieve the immense loss of a remarkable talent, we celebrate the light he brought to the world.”
