South Africa is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic actors, Presley Chweneyagae, who passed away at the age of 40. His death was confirmed in a statement released on 27 May 2025 by the MLA Agency, where he was described as “more than a client, he was a friend, a mentor to many, and a beacon of creativity and perseverance.”

Born on October 19, 1984, in Mafikeng, North West Province, Presley Chweneyagae rose to international stardom with his unforgettable role in the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi (2005), which brought home South Africa’s first-ever Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. His powerful performance marked him as a defining voice in African cinema.

Presley’s journey to stardom began early, when he joined drama classes at the North West Arts Council—now The Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sports Foundation—at the age of 10. This passion for performance took him to stages and screens across the world.

His illustrious career spanned film, television, and theatre, with standout roles in Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013), the popular TV series The River (2018), and theatre classics including Hamlet, Julius Caesar, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Electra. He also co-authored the acclaimed stage play Relativity and directed the award-winning production CELL NO 4.

“Rest in power, Presley. You will never be forgotten,” read the heartfelt closing of the MLA’s tribute. The agency extended condolences to his wife, children, family, and fans worldwide, adding that details of his memorial service will be announced in due course.

Presley Chweneyagae leaves behind a legacy of excellence, inspiration, and transformation in African storytelling.