South African star who died in 2024
2024 has been a heartbreaking year for South Africa, with the country mourning the deaths of several beloved celebrities.
Quite a few of these stars are actors and actresses and have left a void in the entertainment industry.
Here we introduce 15 South African celebrities who passed away this year, celebrating their lives and contributions to their fields.
1. Connie Chaim
Veteran South African actress passed away in August
2. Marome Vector
South African singer Malome Vector died in a fatal traffic accident in July.
3. Lucas Moripe
Lucas 'Masterpiece' Moripe, a standout player of the 1970s and a football legend, died in November at his home in Atteridgeville, Pretoria.
4. Adrian Alper
Adrian Alper, the director, comedian and actor who played Leslie in Generations and Reverend Gummies in 7de Laan, died in May.
5. Zanele Mbokazi
Radio presenter and founder of the Crown Gospel Awards, Zanele Mbokazi, passed away in August after a battle with cancer.
6. Tito MBOWENI
Tito Mboweni, South Africa's former Minister of Finance and Labor and the first black central bank governor, died in October after a short illness.
7. Jessica Mbageni
Renowned poet and singer Jessica Mbangeni passed away in August.
8. Thabiso Sikhwane
Broadcasting veteran Thabiso Sikwane passed away in August after a short illness.
9. Tony Cedras
Jazz musician Tony Cedras passed away in January after battling chronic emphysema.
10. DJ Mashata
Renowned DJ and MC Peter Mashata Mabuse was killed on a Sunday morning in April after a performance in Soshanguve, north of Pretoria.
11. Mapapucci
Veteran musician Mapaputsi, real name Andile Ngwenya, passed away in September.
12 Chris April
Legendary actor Chris “Bra Spokes” April passed away on March 31st.
13. Solly Moholo
Gospel musician Solomon Molokoane, popularly known as Solly Moholo, passed away in October at the age of 65 after a long illness.
14. Francis Ndrajilwana
Veteran actress Frances Ndlasilwana passed away in March after a long battle with illness.
15. Stanley Shabalala
Former Bafana Bafana coach and founding member of Kaizer Chiefs, Stanley 'Screamer' Tshabalala, passed away in July.
16. Cero Motolounge
South African actor Sello Motolounge passed away in September.
17. Darlington Papa G. Michaels
The legendary figure, whose real name was Teboho Ndalana (78) and was affectionately known as Papa G, passed away on Friday, September 13th after a short battle with illness.
18. Timmy Kwelana
Veteran South African actor and musician Timmy Kwebulana passed away on Thursday, September 19, 2024, after a short illness.
19. DJ Lampsey
Farafala FM radio jock Lofiwa 'Lampsy' Lampfumezi passed away in January.
20. Kenny McEwen
Gospel singer Kenny passed away on January 15, two weeks after being hospitalized.
This year has highlighted the fragility of life and the immense impact of these people. Their absence will be deeply felt, but their contribution to South African culture, art and society will live on. Their talent, passion and dedication to their craft will always be remembered.
