The family of award-winning actress Connie Chiume has expressed its heartfelt gratitude to the public for their support following the death of the actress.
“The Chiume family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude for all the messages of support and condolences during this difficult time, as they cope with the loss of their mother, Connie,” read the statement.
Chiume’s family on Tuesday afternoon confirmed that the actress died at the Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg, “following a period of illness”.
“Her children would like to express their deep appreciation to the doctors and nursing staff who provided exceptional care during her stay.”
Born in Welkom, Chiume initially trained as a nurse until she began her acting career in 1977 when she moved to Greece to join the cast of the musical “Sola Sola”.
She later gained popularity in South Africa after playing Thembi in the series “Inkom’ Edla Yodwa” in 1989, as well as for roles in TV shows like “Rhythm City” and “Gomora”.
The actress went on to win several honours across her career, including the NTVA Avanti Award for Best Actress in a Drama Series for' Soul City' in 2000, and the SAFTA for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama for 'Zone 14' in 2009.
