Death of talented actor Presley Chweneyagae shocks South Africa

By Edward Tsumele, CITYLIFE/ARTS Editor

Multi-decorated stage and screen actor Presley Chweneyagae’s untimely death confirmed by his family on Tuesday May 27, 2025 has shocked many people in the creative sector, including his thousands of fans who appreciated his stage and screen exploits for the past three decades.

A formidable actor who enthralled in almost all the roles he was cast in in either stage or screen, he was simply outstanding as an actor. He was a remarkable display of talent who left many fans wanting some more from this Mafikeng born talent.

Many a film lover throughout the world will especially remember Presley for his totally convincing control of his character in the award winning production Tsotsi directed by Gavin Hood, performing convincing alongside other talented South African actors Terry Pheto, Mothusi Magano, Kenneth Nkosi and Own Sejake. The film won the Academy Award in the Foreign Language Category, propelling both particularly Presley and Pheto into becoming internationally respected actors, deservedly well respected for their respective roles.

However in an ironically twist of fate both actors in recent years found themselves in a sticky situation that shocked South Africa when they were allegedly to have fleeced the National Lottery by allegedly diverting funds they got from the Lottery for their personal use, including allegedly buying properties. Both were currently facing legal action from the authorities for the alleged crimes, and the issue was still to unfold in court.

Other films where the talent of Presley demonstrated his artistry include iNumber Number Jozi Gold and Zama Zama. 

Circumstances surrounding Presley’s death had not been released by the time of publishing by his family. When that is done CITYLIFE/ARTS will update this developing story.