Heartfelt Farewell: Terry Pheto Remembers Tsotsi Co-Star Presley Chweneyagae
As the South African film industry reels from the sudden passing of beloved actor Presley Chweneyagae, his Tsotsi co-star Terry Pheto has shared a moving tribute that echoes the deep loss felt by fans and colleagues alike.
Chweneyagae, who passed away at the age of 40 on Tuesday, May 27, was most widely recognized for his powerful portrayal in the 2005 film Tsotsi, which went on to win an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film—a milestone moment in South African cinema.
Pheto, who played opposite him in that career-defining film, took to Instagram to express her sorrow:
“I’m shocked and saddened by the news of Presley’s sudden passing. 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.”
A Loss Felt Far Beyond the Screen
Known affectionately for his role as Cobra Mokoena in the hit TV series The River and its spin-off Cobrizi, Chweneyagae was more than just a screen presence—he was a storyteller, an activist, and a source of inspiration.
His agency, MLA, confirmed the actor’s death but did not immediately disclose the cause. His family has since clarified that he died of natural causes, following a brief breathing difficulty that paramedics were unable to remedy.
Legacy of a National Treasure
Fans, co-stars, and creatives across the country have flooded social media with tributes and memories, hailing Presley as a “gentle giant” of South African storytelling. His range across film, television, and stage left an indelible mark on the arts—one that continues to inspire a new generation of performers.
As Terry Pheto’s touching words remind us, Presley’s legacy is not only one of performance but of history, pride, and unforgettable moments etched into South Africa’s cultural memory.
Presley Chweneyagae: Gone too soon, but never forgotten.
