Presley Chweneyagae, the acclaimed South African actor who rose to international prominence with his lead role in the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi, has died at the age of 40. His death was confirmed on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, by his talent agency, MLA. The cause of death has not been disclosed .
Born on October 19, 1984, in Mahikeng, North West Province, Chweneyagae began his artistic journey at the age of 10, participating in drama classes at the North West Arts Council (now the Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sports Foundation) . His early immersion in the performing arts laid the foundation for a career that would span theater, television, and film.
Chweneyagae’s breakthrough came in 2005 when he starred as the titular character in Tsotsi, directed by Gavin Hood and based on Athol Fugard’s novel. The film, which tells the story of a young gang leader’s transformation after a chance encounter with an infant, garnered critical acclaim and won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film—the first for South Africa . Chweneyagae’s portrayal was lauded for its depth and authenticity, catapulting him to international stardom.
Beyond Tsotsi, Chweneyagae delivered compelling performances in films such as More Than Just a Game, State of Violence, and Africa United. On television, he was widely recognized for his role as Thuso “Cobra” Mokoena in the popular telenovela The River, which aired from 2018 to 2024. His character’s popularity led to a spin-off series, Cobrizi, further cementing his status as a household name in South African entertainment .
In addition to his screen work, Chweneyagae was deeply involved in theater. He co-wrote the acclaimed stage play Relativity with Paul Grootboom and directed the award-winning production CELL NO. 4. His stage credits include performances in Shakespearean productions such as Hamlet, Julius Caesar, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream, showcasing his versatility as an actor .
Chweneyagae’s contributions extended beyond performance; he was committed to nurturing young talent and empowering the next generation of artists. His passion for storytelling and mentorship left an indelible mark on South Africa’s cultural landscape.
Tributes have poured in from across the nation. The South African government honored him as a “gifted storyteller whose talent lit up our screens and hearts,” while the South African Film and Television Awards described him as a “true legend of South African Cinema” . Fikile Mbalula, Secretary-General of the African National Congress, referred to Chweneyagae as a “giant of South African film and theatre,” acknowledging his lasting impact on the industry.
Chweneyagae’s untimely passing is a profound loss to the arts community. His legacy endures through the powerful stories he told and the inspiration he provided to aspiring artists.
