Culture

South African Black Panther actress Connie Chiume passes on at 72

Published

2 months ago

August 7, 2024

South African film legend, Connie Chiume, who featured in Marvel film, “Black Panther, has died at the age of 72, her family has announced.

The iconic film star who graced South African TV for decades, reportedly died at a Johannesburg hospital, according to a statement published on social media by her family.

The announcement posted on Instagram on Tuesday reads:

“The Chiume family regrets to inform you of the passing of the International Acclaimed award winning actress Connie Chiume.

“Connie Chiume 72, passed on at Garden City Hospital today on the 6th August 2024. The family asks for privacy during this difficult period. The family will communicate further details.”

Chiume, who played tribal the role of a leader Zawavari in both “Black Panther” and its 2022 sequel, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” was a household name in her native South Africa.

She was a multi-award-winning actress who also starred in several South African TV shows including “Rhythm City”, “Zone 14” and most recently, popular TV series, “Gomora”.

Chiume was born in 1952 to a Malawian father and a South African Zulu mother, according to her profile on the website of her agency, MLA.

“Before embarking on a career in showbiz that spanned more than 45 years, she trained as a nurse and later worked as a teacher.

“Her first foray into the world of entertainment came in 1977 when she joined a musical show called “Sola Sola,” which toured Israel and Greece and went on to rack up a host of credits on both stage and screen.

“She rose to prominence as an actress in 1989 when she appeared in the popular South African television series “Inkom’ Edla Yodwa”.

“In the 2018 “Black Panther” film, Chiume starred as Zawavari – a member of the Wakandan Tribal Council. In the 2022 sequel “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” she replaced Zuri (Forest Whitaker) as Wakanda’s Elder Statesman.

“She was also highly celebrated for her appearances in Beyoncé’s Disney musical film based on “The Lion King”, in which she played Simba’s mother, Sarabi.

“Her most recent role was in “Heart of the Hunter”, released earlier this year, and she also appeared in TV series “Soon Comes Night” in February.

Chiume was given several awards, including an NTVA Avanti Award for Best Actress in a Drama Series for her role in Soul City in 2000.

Later in 2009, she received 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.

Paying tribute to her on X, the South African government posted:

“Our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of multi-award winning and legendary actress Connie Chiume. Her outstanding work will always be remembered. #RIPConnieChiume.”

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Culture

Online streaming platform Spotify increases price for its Nigerian premium subscribers by 40%

Published

2 days ago

October 7, 2024

Isaac Dachen

Online audio streaming platform, Spotify, has announced an immediate increment in price for its premium subscribers in Nigeria by over 40%.

In a statement announcing the price increase, the platform said the hike in the fee would allow the team to continue innovating on its product offerings and features, providing users with the best experience.

In the notification, Spotify informed that starting from their billing date in November, their subscription price would change from ₦900/month to ₦1,300/month.

The latest price update puts the Premium subscription plan at ₦7,000 ($4.40) monthly, up from the initial ₦5,000 ($3.14), indicating a 40% rise.

The platform had in April, hiked its Premium Plan price from ₦4,400 ($2.76) to ₦5,000 ($3.14).

However, it added that users who do not wish to continue paying for Premium at the new price can cancel via their account page.

Spotify has also introduced Offline Backup to its Premium users globally, allowing them to listen to music offline without needing to download, with the
Offline Backup appearing in the Home feed when users are offline, and can listen to more than five songs once they have offline listening activated.

Culture

Legendary SA gospel artiste Solly Moholo passes away at 65

Published

4 days ago

October 5, 2024

Isaac Dachen

Legendary South African gospel singer, Solly Moholo, has passed away following an illness shortly after his pre-album launch tour in Botswana.

According to his family, Moholo who was known and celebrated for his energetic performances and spiritual music, passed away on Wednesday, October 2, at the age of 65.

“It is with great sadness that we inform you that our beloved legend Solly Moholo has sadly passed on,” a statement issued by the family on Friday read.

The statement however, requested privacy as the family gradually comes to terms with their loss and prepare for Moholo’s funeral, with details about the memorial service to be shared on his official pages in the coming days.

Moholo who was born Solomon Molokoane, was a pivotal figure in South African gospel music, known for his unique blend of traditional gospel sounds and modern township influences.

A local media in a tribute to the singer, wrote:

“His powerful voice and uplifting lyrics resonated deeply with millions, making him a beloved household name in South Africa and beyond.

“Hits like “Ba Mmitsa Moholo Wa Dipelo” and “Ke Mo Afrika” became anthems in churches and community events, offering comfort, hope, and joy to listeners.

“Despite the loss, Moholo’s legacy will endure through his extensive discography, which features dozens of albums reflecting themes of faith and perseverance.

“His music not only shaped the gospel genre in South Africa but also addressed social issues, demonstrating his commitment to using his platform for good.

“Solly Moholo’s influence extended beyond South Africa, as he regularly performed in countries like Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Lesotho, where his music was equally celebrated. His passing leaves a significant void in the hearts of fans across the African continent.”