Connie Chiume, actress of the ‘Black Panther’ series, dies at the age of 72
Mourning in the film industry: The death of two prominent actresses has been confirmed. Learn about the legacy of each of them.
2024-08-09T12:00:33+00:00- Connie Chiume dies
- Irreplaceable legacies in cinema
- Hollywood mourns the loss of two beloved stars
The film industry is in mourning after the loss of two cherished actresses, Connie Chiume and Patti Yasutake.
Both women left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
Connie Chiume, the veteran South African actress known for her roles in the «Black Panther» films, passed away at the age of 72 in a Johannesburg hospital.
Her family confirmed the news in a statement shared on social media, asking for privacy during this difficult time.
Hollywood mourns the loss of two beloved stars
«Connie Chiume, aged 72, passed away at Garden City Hospital on August 6, 2024,» the statement read.
«The family requests privacy during this difficult period. More details will be shared in due course,» it continued.
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Chiume portrayed the tribal leader Zawavari in «Black Panther» and its sequel, «Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.»
Her performance garnered international acclaim, though she was already a well-known figure in South Africa.
The South African government also paid tribute to the actress through their official social media account on X, formerly Twitter.
«Our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the legendary actress Connie Chiume.»
«Her extraordinary work will always be remembered. #RIPConnieChiume,» they stated.
Born in South Africa in 1952 to a Malawian father and Zulu mother, Chiume initially trained as a nurse and worked as a teacher before entering the world of entertainment, as noted by ‘El Mundo’.
Her acting career began in 1977 with a musical production called «Sola Sola,» which toured Israel and Greece.
Throughout her career, Chiume amassed a significant number of credits on stage and television.
She was particularly known for her role in the South African TV series «Gomora.»
In an Instagram tribute, her agency MLA wrote, «We are all shocked and devastated by the passing of our beloved Connie.»
Before gaining Hollywood fame, Chiume made her mark in South Africa with her role in the series «Rhythm City,» where she played Mamokete Khuse in 101 episodes over eight years.
Her recent notable works include the series «Soon Comes Night» and the film «El corazón del cazador,» as reported by ‘CNN en Español’.
Additionally, her role in «Black Panther» made her a significant figure in superhero cinema, portraying the character Zawavari.
Connie Chiume’s passing represents a profound loss for the film and television industry, and her legacy will endure forever.
Simultaneously, the world of cinema also mourns the loss of Patti Yasutake, the iconic «Star Trek» actress.
Yasutake passed away at the age of 70 after a long battle with a rare form of T-cell lymphoma, according to ’20 Minutos’.
Her manager, Kyle Fritz, confirmed the news and expressed his sorrow over losing his first client.
«We cherished every day we had the chance to work together, and I will miss her spiritual talent, her tenacity, but most of all, her friendship,» he said.
Patti Yasutake’s career and legacy
Yasutake portrayed Nurse Alyssa Ogawa in «Star Trek: The Next Generation,» «Star Trek Generations,» and «Star Trek: First Contact.»
She also had a prominent role as Fumi Nakai in «Beef.» The actress was born on September 6, 1953, in Los Angeles.
Yasutake developed much of her artistic career at East West Players, the longest-running Asian-American theater in the United States.
A memorial service will be held at her former theater to honor her life and career.
Patti Yasutake: A lasting legacy
In addition to her work on «Star Trek,» Yasutake appeared in series like «T.J Hooker,» «Boston Legal,» and films such as «The Wash» and «Lush Life.»
Patti Yasutake’s passing is another significant loss for the film and television industry. Her legacy will be remembered for her dedication and talent, as noted by ‘20 Minutos‘.
The impact of Connie Chiume and Patti Yasutake will endure over time, inspiring future generations of actors and actresses worldwide, according to ‘CNN en Español‘ and ‘El Mundo‘.
HERE you can see a photo of the ‘Black Panther’ actress, and HERE an image of Patti Yasutake.