Seasoned actress Connie Chiume mourned as she passes on
By Edward Tsumele, CITYLIFE/ARTS Editor
There is no doubt that seasoned actress Connie Chiume’s death has touched many people in general and the creative sector in particular because of the important roles she has played in different productions over the years, be it in theatre film or TV.
An always vivacious personality, Chiume was liked by both fans and colleagues particularly becaus4e she always appeared to exude positivity and charisma. No sooner did her demise in a Johannesburg hospital where she was admitted break on Tuesday, did the condolence started flooding social media networks and the media. In a way Ousie Connie was larger than life, and her acting talent had few matches on the local entertainment scene. Whether on the small screen, big screen or on stage, she was able to carry her characters in the way that a few other were able to do. She was a natural in short. She will therefore be missed by many.
“The Market Theatre Foundation is deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary thespian, Connie Chiume. The internationally acclaimed actress, theatre veteran and philanthropist, whose remarkable work spanned the world for over five decades, was known for roles in notable films and television shows such as Black Panther, Black Is King, Blessers, Yizo Yizo 2, Zone 14, Rhythm City, and Gomora.
Her iconic artistry extended beyond TV and film. Mme Chiume equally felt at home on the live-wired theatre stage as she did on the small screens. Her theatre contribution goes as far as Sola, Porgy and Bess, Little Shop of Horrors, Mzumba, Somdaka, Coon Carnivals, Iphi Ntombi, and Wathintha Abafazi with other numerous performances staged globally.
“We pay tribute to Mme Chiume and extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, fellow thespians, and her fans. She was a legend in the performing arts and her contribution to the industry and powerful gift of bringing diverse characters to life will not be forgotten. Her footprint, legacy and influence through her artistry will live on and far beyond the borders of Africa,” says Tshiamo Mokgadi, CEO of The Market Theatre Foundation Robala ka kgotso Mme Connie.
The Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Matome Chiloane, has also extended condolences for the passing of Chiume, following her shocking sudden death on the 6th of August 2024.
Says MEC Chiloane; “I am saddened by the passing of the beloved veteran actor, Mama Connie Chiume, her passing is also a huge loss to the nation and the creatives fraternity.
“We reminisce on her meticulous talent which made her a one-of-a-kind performer whose extensive body of work has represented our great nation’s star power beyond our borders. Her immense on-screen impact was immeasurable and will go down in history as one of our greatest storytellers.
“As we commemorate Women’s Month, I wish to honour her legacy and chutzpah as a power queen who has inspired countless creatives and given the industry the respect it deserves.
“My sincerest condolences to her loved ones and colleagues. May her beloved soul rest in eternal peace. Fare thee well Mama, your legacy and work will never be forgotten”.
Highly acclaimed, Chiume won many awards over her career including numerous South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs), and one of her latest accolades was as a Lifetime Achiever recipient at the inaugural Cultural and Creative Industry Awards (CCI) in March this year presented by the National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, with support from the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture.