The South African film industry is mourning the loss of talented actor Presley Chweneyagae, best known for his powerful portrayal of the character Tsotsi in the acclaimed 2005 film and his award-winning performance as Thuso “Cobra” Mokoena in the TV drama The River.

Chweneyagae’s performance in the Oscar-winning movie Tsotsi not only showcased his exceptional acting skills but also brought international attention to South African cinema.

“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of one of South Africa’s most gifted and beloved actors, Presley Chweneyagae, at the age of 40,” a statement from his manager, Nina Morris Lee from MLA, read. 

“Born on October 19, 1984, in Mahikeng, North West, Presley was destined for the stage and screen. His artistic journey began at the age of 10 when he joined drama classes at the North West Arts Council (now The Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sports Foundation), setting him on a lifelong path of storytelling, expression, and excellence.

“He rose to international fame with his unforgettable performance in Tsotsi (2005), a role that helped bring home South Africa’s first-ever Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Presley’s performance resonated with audiences across the globe, cementing his place as a powerful and authentic voice in African cinema.

“Presley’s career spanned theatre, television, and film, with standout performances in Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013) and the award-winning television series The River (2018). On stage, his presence was commanding and transformative, with roles in Hamlet, Mark Antony in Julius Caesar, Bottom and Puck in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Orestes in Dikeledi (an adaptation of Electra), Relativity, Urban Reality, Jack in the Box, The Grandball, Silent Voice, Kalushi, Cards, Beautiful Things, and more.

“He was also a gifted writer and director, co-authoring the internationally acclaimed stage play Relativity with Paul Grootboom – later published by STE Publishers – and directing the award-winning production CELL NO 4.

“Presley was a longtime and cherished member of the MLA family – more than a client, he was a friend, a mentor to many, a beacon of creativity and perseverance. His passion for empowering the next generation of artists will remain an integral part of his legacy.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, extended family, colleagues, and all who knew and loved him. While we grieve the immense loss of a remarkable talent, we celebrate the light he brought to the world. Details regarding memorial services will be shared in due course.”

Terry Pheto, who starred alongside Presley in Tsotsi, took to her social media timeline to express her shock and sadness at the news. “I’m shocked and saddened by the news of Presley’s sudden passing,” Pheto wrote. “My heart goes out to his family and the rest of our friends and colleagues in the film industry. We shared an unforgettable moment when we won the Oscar. It’s a moment I will forever cherish. May his soul rest in peace,” she wrote.