Cynthia Shange passes away at 76

Legendary actress Cynthia Shange, the first Black woman to represent South Africa at Miss World in 1972, has passed away at the age of 76.

After being crowned Miss Black South Africa in 1972, she went on to become the first Black woman to win a Miss South Africa title and represent the country on the global stage during a deeply divided era in the nation’s history.

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Shange was also a pioneering figure in film, starring as the lead in South Africa’s first Black feature film, Udeliwe (1975), alongside the late Joe Mafela.

Her acting career extended to notable roles in productions such as Shaka Zulu and Muvhango on SABC, cementing her legacy in the country’s entertainment industry. She was also the mother of prominent media personality Nonhle Thema.

“With profound sadness, the family of Cynthia Shange shares the news of her passing at the age of 76,” the family said in a statement.

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“Shange, a legendary figure in South African arts and culture, left an indelible mark as both a beauty queen and a revered actress. She passed away in the early hours of today in a hospital in KwaZulu-Natal after facing illness.

“Shange was a trailblazer in the South African entertainment industry, rising to prominence in the 197Os when she was crowned Miss Africa South. Her achievement was historic, as she excelled during the era of segregated pageantry and went on to represent South Africa at Miss World in 1972 in London, securing an impressive 5th place.”