South Africa Bids Farewell to Tsotsi Star Presley Chweneyagae in Emotional Pretoria Memorial
In a moving celebration of life, South Africa gathered in heartfelt tribute to Presley Chweneyagae, the gifted actor who brought depth, intensity, and raw emotion to his craft. Held at the South African State Theatre’s Momentum Theatre in Pretoria, the memorial service on Thursday marked the second and final gathering in honour of the Tsotsi star before his funeral. The nation mourned together, remembering the actor who not only helped elevate South African cinema to global stages but also left an indelible imprint on hearts at home.
A Moment in History: Where it All Began
Hosted by fellow actor Thato Molamu, the ceremony was filled with reflection and reverence. It was fitting that this celebration was held at the same venue where Presley was discovered by the late legendary casting director Moonyeenn Lee. That pivotal moment led to his unforgettable portrayal in the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi (2006), directed by Gavin Hood.
“Presley gave Tsotsi a soul. He gave his soul,” Hood said, recounting how Lee insisted on auditioning the then-19-year-old who had never acted in film before.
The recognition of Chweneyagae’s ability to connect so truthfully—ego-free and instinctively—with his roles stood out as a dominant theme throughout the service. According to Hood, Presley’s performance transcended the screen. “He didn’t perform for the camera. He allowed us to witness him,” he said.
Co-Stars and Industry Giants Pay Tribute
Terry Pheto, Presley’s co-star in Tsotsi, paid a deeply emotional tribute, remembering how their journey together began when they were just “young, hungry and full of dreams.”
“His brilliance catapulted my career to unimaginable heights,” she said, recalling how working alongside Presley shaped her life in film.
She also reflected on working with him again almost two decades later in iNumber Number: Jozi Gold, this time as a director trainee. “He was still powerful, still generous, still utterly magnetic,” she added.
Kenneth Nkosi, Israel Matseke-Zulu, Sdumo Mtshali, and Phathu Makwarela of Tshedza Pictures also shared moving memories of working with Presley on both Tsotsi and the iNumber Number franchise.
Family, Love, and the Man Behind the Roles
Presley’s uncle, Motseothata Chweneyagae, offered a glimpse into the man beyond the screen. He shared touching stories about his nephew’s nickname “Tobetsa,” given to him in childhood, and the iconic black beret he wore as “Cobra” in The River, which had been passed down from his late grandmother.
Also in attendance were members of his in-laws, including Thandi Kirk Dlamini, who spoke of the actor’s humility, kindness, and deep bonds with his family.
Final Farewell
Chweneyagae tragically passed away last Tuesday after suddenly experiencing breathing difficulties. He was only 40 years old. His funeral will take place on Saturday at the Akasia Community Hall, followed by a burial at Zandfontein Cemetery in Pretoria.
His death leaves a void in South Africa’s artistic and cultural fabric, but his legacy—his performances, his passion, his humanity—will endure.
Why Presley Mattered
Presley Chweneyagae’s story is not just one of cinematic success. It is a story of transcendence—a young man from South Africa who stepped onto a stage and gave the world something real, something eternal. From Tsotsi to The River, his was a career defined by integrity and artistry.
As Gavin Hood eloquently noted, “He carried the heart of the film without ever trying to steal one frame.”
