Black PantherActress Connie Chiume Dies at 72

Mar. 15, 2025

Connie Chiume at the 6th Annual Royalty Soapie Awards at The Galleria on March 11, 2023 in Sandton, South Africa.Photo:Oupa Bopape/Gallo Images via Getty

Oupa Bopape/Gallo Images via Getty

Black PantheractressConnie Chiume has died. She was 72.

Chiume died at the Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa, on Tuesday, Aug. 6, following a “period of illness,” her family said in a statement posted on herInstagram page.

“Her children would like to express their deep appreciation to the doctors and nursing staff who provided exceptional care during her stay,” the statement read. “Details of the memorial and funeral services will be shared on Connie’s social media platforms in due course, as the family takes time to make the necessary arrangements.”

According to theBBC, the South African actress first worked as a teacher before beginning her career in television with roles in shows likeRhythm CityandZone 14.

Chiume joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in 2018 with her appearance as a tribal leader inBlack Pantherand its 2022 sequel,Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Some of her other roles included the musical filmBlack Is Kingand the drama seriesGomora.

In addition to earningmultiple South African Film and Television Awardsthroughout her career, the South African Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie,presented Chiume with the Living Legend awardat the inaugural Cultural and Creative Industry Awards in March.

Connie Chiume in ‘Black Panther’.Marvel/Disney/Kobal/Shutterstock

Marvel/Disney/Kobal/Shutterstock

“Her performances brought joy, inspiration, and a sense of pride to countless South Africans. She was more than an actress; she was a beacon of strength, resilience and grace,” McKenzie said in astatement after her death.

Connie Chiume at the ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ premiere on October 26, 2022.Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

Some of Chiume’s friends andBlack Pantherformer costars also spoke out, includingLupita Nyong’o. “We have lost a library! May@conniechiumerest in peace and power,” she captioned a photo of the late actress onInstagram.

Winston Dukewrote on X, “Rest in peace my beautiful sister Connie Chiume.Thank you for the resilience and always inspired, present work you delivered in your long illustrious career.”

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“You always possesed gratitude and a generous, bold heart. We’ll miss you and are grateful for your time here. Safe travels on your continued journey🙏🏾,” his statement continued.

source: people.com