South African stars who passed away in 2024
2024 has been a heart-wrenching year for South Africa, as the country mourned the loss of several beloved celebrities.
A significant number of these stars were actors and actresses, leaving a void in the entertainment industry.
Here’s a look at 15 South African celebrities who passed away this year, celebrating their lives and contributions to their respective fields.
The South African veteran actress passed away in August
The South African singer Malome Vector passed away in a fatal car accident, in July.
3. LUCAS MORIPE
Football legend Lucas “Masterpieces” Moripe, a standout player of the 1970s, passed away in November at his home in Atteridgeville, Pretoria.
4. ADRIAN ALPER
Director, comedian, and actor Adrian Alper who portrayed the roles of Lesley in ‘Generations’ and Pastor Gammies in ‘7de Laan’ died in May.
Radio presenter and Crown Gospel Award founder Zanele Mbokazi died in August after battling with cancer.
6. TITO MBOWENI
South Africa’s former finance and labour minister and first Black central bank governor Tito Mboweni died after a brief illness in October.
7. JESSICA MBAGENI
Renowned poet and singer Jessica Mbangeni passed away in August.
Broadcasting veteran, Thabiso Sikwane passes away after a short sickness in August.
9. TONY CEDRAS
Jazz musician Tony Cedras died on in January after battling chronic emphysema.
10. DJ MASHATA
Famous DJ and MC Peter “Mashata” Mabuse was killed after he finished a performance in Soshanguve, north of Pretoria on a Sunday morning in April.
11. MAPAPUTSI
Veteran musician Mapaputsi, real name Andile Ngwenya passed away in September.
12 CHRIS APRIL
Legendary actor Chris “Bra Spokes” April died on 31 March.
13. SOLLY MOHOLO
Gospel musician Solomon Molokoane, popularly known as Solly Moholo, died at the age of 65 in October after battling long illness.
Veteran actress Frances Ndlazilwana died in March after battling an illness for a long time.
Former Bafana Bafana coach and founding member of Kaizer Chiefs Stanley ‘Screamer’ Tshabalala died in July.
16. SELLO MOTLOUNG
South African actor Sello Motloung died in September.
17. DARLINGTON ‘PAPA G’ MICHEALS
The legendary, whose real name is Teboho Ndarana (78), affectionately known as PapaG, died after a short illness on Friday, 13 September.
18. TIMMY KWEBULANA
South African veteran actor and musician Timmy Kwebulana passed away on Thursday, 19 September 2024, after a short illness.
19.DJ RAMPSIE
Phalaphala FM radio jock Rofhiwa ‘Rampsie’ Rampfumedzi died in January.
20. KENNY MAKWENG
Gospel singer Kenny died 15 January, two weeks after being hospitalised.
This year has highlighted the fragility of life and the immeasurable impact of these individuals. While their absence is deeply felt, their contributions to South African culture, art, and society will live on. They will always be remembered for their talent, passion, and dedication to their crafts.
