Black Panther actress Connie 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 her Instagram 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 the BBC, the South African actress first worked as a teacher before beginning her career in television with roles in shows like Rhythm City and Zone 14.
Chiume joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in 2018 with her appearance as a tribal leader in Black Panther and its 2022 sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Some of her other roles included the musical film Black Is King and the drama series Gomora.
In addition to earning multiple South African Film and Television Awards throughout her career, the South African Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, presented Chiume with the Living Legend award at the inaugural Cultural and Creative Industry Awards in March.
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“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 a statement after her death.
The South African Government paid tribute by writing on X, formerly Twitter, “Our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of multi-award winning and legendary actress Connie Chiume. Her outstanding work will always be remembered. #RIPConnieChiume.”
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Some of Chiume’s friends and Black Panther former costars also spoke out, including Lupita Nyong’o. “We have lost a library! May @conniechiume rest in peace and power,” she captioned a photo of the late actress on Instagram.
Winston Duke wrote 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.
