‘Wakanda Forever’ Star Connie Chiume Dies at 72

Family members of internationally acclaimed actress Connie Chiume announced that the Black Panther star has died at 72 years following a battle with an illness. The news has left loved ones, fans, and Hollywood A-listers grieving.

Chiume, affectionately known as “Mam’ Connie,” died on August 6 at Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa. It was a somber Tuesday afternoon for Chiume’s son, Nongelo Chiume, who spoke with Newzroom Afrika about his mother’s passing. She had been in the hospital undergoing a medical procedure and was reportedly recovering well. “Unfortunately…we then got the news of her passing,” Nongelo said.

While the family did not disclose further details about Chiume’s illness, they expressed gratitude for the doctors and nurses who provided “exceptional care during her stay.”

Chiume is remembered as a notable South African actress, entrepreneur, and activist. She graced the screen in several films and television shows, including Black Is King, Housekeepers, Zone 14, and Soul City. This drama series won her an Avanti Trophy in 2000 for Best Actress, according to IMDB.

However, her role as “Mining Tribe Elder” in Marvel’s Black Panther and its 2022 sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, left a lasting impression on fans and fellow actors in Hollywood. Black Panther costar Lupita Nyong’o paid her respects to the legendary actress on Instagram. “We have lost a library!” she captioned a photo of Chiume on the Black Panther carpet. Another fellow costar, Tobagonian-Rwandan actor Winston Duke, wrote on X, “Rest in peace my beautiful sister Connie Chiume. Thank you for your resilience and the always-inspired present work you have delivered in your long, illustrious career.”

In addition to her memorable work in film and television, Chiume was also an activist. She founded the Connie Chiume Foundation in 2020 as part of her mission to invest in creative professionals by providing resource development, business education, and economic growth initiatives. According to the organization’s website, she dedicated her resources to giving back to those who supported her career, spotlighting emerging performers, and inspiring the youth. The foundation has developed classes and workshops to introduce the arts to rural and urban communities. Chiume’s activism also addressed several other matters like HIV and AIDS, gender-based violence, and voter education.

The South African Government commemorated the legendary actress on X, stating, “Her outstanding work will always be remembered” and “South Africa will forever be grateful for your contribution, Mama.”

“We are proud to be her children,” Nongelo recalled in his interview, reflecting on the beautiful memories Chiume left with her loved ones and fans. “I think she’s left us a beautiful legacy and the work that she’s done, not only…for her children or her family, but for the community and the country at large.”

The family will update the public with communications on further arrangements as necessary.