Veteran South African actor Connie Chiume has died at the age of 72, her family has confirmed.
The award-winning Black Panther actress also appeared in several South African shows and in a poignant message before her death, she once shared how she would like to be "remembered".
The actress died at a Johannesburg hospital on Tuesday afternoon, according to reports.
A statement released by her family reads: "The Chiume family regrets to inform you of the passing of the internationally acclaimed award-winning actress Connie Chiume."
They went on to ask for privacy during the difficult period, adding they would communicate further details in the future.
Her son Nongelo Chiume reportedly told TV station Newzroom Afrika that his mother had been admitted for a "medical procedure" ahead of her death.
Connie Chiume was labelled "iconic" after her death was announced by her family
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In a resurfaced interview from 2022, the actress told MacG podcast that she would like people to remember her in their own way.
The BBC reports she had stated: "I have impacted each and every person in a different way. Whatever way I have impacted you, remember me that way."
Tributes have flooded in for the "icon and legend," with floods of messages continuing to be posted on social media.
Posting on X, the South African government penned: "Her outstanding work will always be remembered."
Black Panther star Connie Chiume died following a 'medical procedure' according to her family
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Another commented: "Sad to learn about the passing of an icon & legend #ConnieChiume. Brought back these words she said on the #FeliciaShow. She said, 'I didn't come here for glamour or money. I believe in this thing called, 'a calling.' God has called me to be where I am.' Profound. RIP Diva!"
A third shared: "A Curtain Call to Legendary multi-award winning Actor and Arts Activist mam’ Connie Chiume. Your remarkable contributions to our industry and powerful performances word wide have left an everlasting imprint. We will always remember and honor your impact."
Referencing Chiume's Black Panther co-star, the late Marvel actor Chadwick Boseman, another wrote: "Chadwick Boseman died on August 28, 2020 and Connie Chiume August 6, 2024 they’ve reunited. May their souls rest in peace."
"RIP Connie Chiume. super hard to accept," another remarked. Someone else added: "RIP Connie Chiume. First knew her from the South African TV series Rhythm City on ETV. Talented lady."
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Connie Chiume is best-known globally for her Black Panther role
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"I'm glad you got your flowers before you left us. An exemplary professional. Thank you Connie Chiume," someone else commented. (sic)
The actress received several awards for her work, including an NTVA Avanti Award for Best Actress in a Drama Series for her role in Soul City in 2000.
In 2009, she was also awarded a South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama for her role as Stella Moloi in the family drama Zone 14. She leaves behind four children.
