Gone but not forgotten: South African stars who passed in 2025

2025 saw the passing of numerous South African artists, actors, musicians and cultural figures who left lasting marks on their communities, industries and fans.

Their contributions shaped South Africa’s creative landscape, and their loss is felt across the country. 

Presley Chweneyagae, the acclaimed actor best known for his lead role in the 2005 Academy Award-winning film “Tsotsi", passed away in May at the age of 40.

His family confirmed he died of natural causes after experiencing sudden breathing difficulties at his home in Johannesburg.

Chweneyagae was also celebrated for his portrayal of "Cobra" in the television series “The River" and its spin-off “Cobrizzi", leaving a memorable mark on South African television.

In June, the arts community mourned the loss of Rashid Lombard, a photographer, cultural activist and founder of the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF). Lombard died peacefully at the age of 74 in Cape Town, surrounded by his family.

He was known for his powerful photojournalism during the anti-apartheid struggle and his tireless efforts to promote jazz music locally and internationally.

Jazz enthusiasts also remembered Fezile “Feya” Faku, who passed away in June at the age of 63 while on a music tour in Basel, Switzerland.

Faku, a trumpeter, flugelhornist and composer, was recognised as a gentle giant of African jazz music, admired for his skill, dedication and quiet presence.

South African television lost veteran actor Don Mlangeni Nawa in April at age 65. Nawa’s wife confirmed that he had been battling prostate cancer for several years.

Nawa’s work across the stage and screen left a significant legacy in South African acting.

Wiseman Sithole, aged 51, passed away in June at his Cape Town home. The cause of death was not officially confirmed, though reports suggested a brief illness.

Sithole was celebrated for his roles in stage and television productions, including his memorable portrayal of the villainous soccer agent Lucky Mabande in the drama series “Shooting Stars”.

In October, acclaimed author and academic Zoë Wicomb died in Glasgow, Scotland, at the age of 76 due to a pulmonary embolism. Wicomb was widely recognised for her exploration of mixed-race identity and life during and after apartheid, leaving behind a rich body of literature that continues to inspire.

Veteran actress Nandi Nyembe passed away in August at the age of 75, following a long illness. Earlier in the year, she had revealed that she was using a wheelchair due to spinal issues.

Nyembe was respected as the soul of South African storytelling, influencing generations of actors and audiences. 

The music and radio industries also faced profound losses. Warrick "DJ Warras" Stock was shot and killed in December in Johannesburg’s CBD. His death, believed to be connected to his work with hijacked buildings, shocked fans and colleagues.

Winnie Khumalo, a singer and actress prominent in kwaito and afro-pop, died in January at age 51 after a short illness. She had previously performed as a backing singer for Brenda Fassie and later enjoyed a successful solo career. 

Social media star, rapper and dancer Junior King, born Dugulth Darian Denver Ferreira, died in a car collision on the N1 highway near Verkeerdevlei in December.

He was 29. King, originally from Gqeberha, gained popularity for his energetic dance videos and sharp lyrical style, particularly in Afrikaans hip hop.

Veteran radio broadcaster Darren Scott, affectionately known as “Dazzy, died in May at age 61 after a long battle with stage 4 melanoma.

Scott’s voice, wit and passion for radio made him a household name over a career spanning four decades.

Yolanda “Yallunder” Nyembezi passed away in March at age 30 after a months-long illness. A classically trained vocalist, Yallunder rose to prominence in 2018 through viral covers that caught the attention of artists such as Black Coffee and Sjava. 

Kwaito legend Doc Shebeleza (Victor Bogopane) died in January at age 51 after a prolonged illness. He was known for pioneering the kwaito genre with hits including “Ghets Ghetsa" and “Ebumnandini”.

Actor and comedian Oscar "Madluphuthu" Mgudlwa passed away in July at age 49. He gained fame through his “Madluphuthu” character, which became a cult favourite in low-budget township films of the mid-2000s.

Manqoba Ntombela, founder of the music group Woza Afrika, was tragically shot outside his home in Ratanda, Heidelberg, in May. Ntombela, known for the hit “Istokvela”, was also a businessman, former teacher and community leader.

Jonathan Pienaar, a prolific actor with a career spanning over 30 years, died in November at age 63 in his Johannesburg home due to complications from heart failure.