Mzansi stars gather to honour Presley
MZANSI stars, fans, friends, and family gather at the State Theatre in Tshwane on Thursday, 5 June.
They have come to honour the life of the late, award-winning actor Presley “Tobetsa” Chweneyagae.
The atmosphere is filled with emotion as the industry remembers a man who stole hearts with his breakout role in Tsotsi and continued to shine in shows like The River and other local productions.
Presley passed away on 27 May, aged 40.
This marks the actor’s second memorial service, following an intimate gathering in his hometown of Mahikeng, in North West, on Tuesday, 3 June.
Actress and musician Maduvha Madima, who worked closely with Presley in The River, is among the many industry peers in attendance.
She shares heartfelt memories of the time they spent together on set.
“What a loss. Presley was the hope we needed as a nation. Watching him made us believe that it’s possible to stand on international stages like the Oscars.”
Still visibly shaken, Maduvha said it’s hard to accept his passing.
“I’m in disbelief. He was a true professional and brought such excellence to everything he did. This is a great loss for the whole country,” she said.
Maduvha also remembers Presley’s playful personality that kept spirits high during long shoot days.
“I’ll always remember him as that naughty child who got everyone into trouble except himself. He was full of jokes and could make the whole set laugh. There was never a dull moment with him. Those are the memories I will carry forever.”
As mourners continue to arrive, it’s clear that Presley’s impact goes far beyond the screen as he touched lives, inspired generations, and will forever be remembered as a legend in the local film and TV industry.
