Prominent South African Celebrities Who Died in 2024
2024 was a difficult year, and several prominent South African celebrities and public figures died, leaving Mzansi broken. Here are some of the most notable figures who died this year.
Dingaan Thobela
Dingaan Thobela, known as “The Rose of Soweto,” passed away on April 29, 2024, following an illness. Thobela was a three-time boxing champion whose legacy in the sport remains untouched.
Mpho Sebeng
Mpho Sebeng, best known for his role in Savage Beauty, tragically lost his life in a car accident on May 5, 2024. The accident occurred in Potchefstroom, and Sebeng’s untimely death deeply saddened his fans and the entertainment community.
Malome Vector, Lizwi Wokuqala, and Musa Damos Nkodo
On July 24, 2024, South Africa was stunned by the deaths of rising rapper Malome Vector, alongside musicians Lizwi Wokuqala and Musa Damos Nkodo, in a fatal car crash. Their deaths represented a significant loss for the music industry.
Connie Chiume
Veteran actress Connie Chiume passed away on August 6, 2024, sending shockwaves across the entertainment industry. Best known for her roles in television and film, including Black Panther, Chiume was a beloved figure whose death left many fans heartbroken.
Zanele Mbokazi
Zanele Mbokazi, a famed Ukhozi FM presenter, lost her battle with lung cancer on August 12, 2024, after being diagnosed in May. She was 52 years old and left behind a remarkable legacy in radio broadcasting.
Thabiso Sikwane
Seasoned broadcaster Thabiso Sikwane died on August 31, 2024, just hours before her 50th birthday, after a sudden illness.
Mapaputsi (Sandile Ngwenya)
Legendary Kwaito artist Mapaputsi, born Sandile Ngwenya, passed away on September 5, 2024, after battling an illness. His death saddened fans of Kwaito music, as he was one of the genre’s most influential artists.
Darlington “Papa G” Michaels
Famed for his role on Isidingo, Darlington Michaels, affectionately known as “Papa G,” passed away on September 13, 2024, after being hospitalised. His portrayal of iconic characters earned him a special place in the hearts of South African TV viewers.
Umfundisi uNtshebe (Philani Mandlenkosi Mabanga)
The late comedian and rapper Umfundisi uNtshebe passed away in his sleep on September 13, 2024. His death was a shock to fans who admired his comedic talent and musical contributions.
Tito Mboweni
Former Finance Minister Tito Mboweni passed away on October 12, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of economic reform and public service. His contributions to South Africa’s financial landscape were widely recognized.
