AceShowbiz - Connie Chiume, a South African actress recognized for her impressive roles in "Black Panther", its sequel "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" and Beyonce Knowles' "Black Is King", has died. She was 72. The news of her passing was announced by her family on Instagram.

"The Chiume Family regrets to inform you of the passing of the internationally acclaimed award-winning actress Connie Chiume," they wrote in a statement. Chiume died at Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa, but her cause of death has yet to be disclosed.

Born on June 5, 1952, in Welkom, South Africa, Chiume trained as a nurse and earned a teaching degree before pursuing a career in the entertainment industry. She launched her acting journey in 1977 by joining the cast of the musical "Sola Sola" in Greece. Her breakthrough role came in 1989 when she portrayed Thembi on the South African series "Inkom' Edla Yodwa". She further solidified her reputation with roles on "Soul City", "Zone 14" and "Rhythm City", where she played Mamokete Khuse from 2007 to 2016.

Chiume's talents transcended borders, leading her to a role in the revolutionary film "Black Panther" in 2018 as Zawavari, a Mining Tribe Elder. She reprised this role in the 2022 sequel "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever". Reflecting on the audition process, she told South Africa's Sunday Times in 2022, "I went to an audition not knowing what I was auditioning for. I went there and I was given a piece that I was supposed to do. I could see that this person is an African who was addressing the nation. I wore my African regalia, I learnt my lines. I did my best."

In Beyonce's 2020 musical film "Black Is King", Chiume portrayed Sarabi, Simba's mother. Throughout her career, she earned numerous accolades, including the NTVA Avanti Award for Best Actress in a Drama Series for "Soul City" in 2000 and the SAFTA for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama for "Zone 14" in 2009. She was also recognized for her appearances in films like "I Dreamed of Africa" and television series such as "Blessers", "Umama" and "Jewel".

South Africans and the global community mourn the loss of a true cinematic legend who brought depth, grace and authenticity to every role she embraced. The South African government acknowledged her impact, stating, "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."

Chiume is survived by her four children, two sons and two daughters. She was married from 1985 to 2004. In her passing, the world bids farewell to an extraordinary talent and a beloved figure whose work will continue to inspire future generations.