South Africans will get a chance to say goodbye to one of the country’s most cherished actors, Presley Chweneyagae, whose funeral and memorial service details have now been confirmed.
The 40-year-old actor, best known for his powerful role as Cobra on the hit series The River, passed away after struggling with breathing problems. Despite efforts from paramedics who were called to his home, he sadly could not be saved.
His family, through his management agency MLA, released a heartfelt statement that moved fans across the nation: “It is with profound sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of one of South Africa’s most gifted and beloved actors, Presley Chweneyagae, at the age of 40.”
To honour his life and legacy, two memorial services have been planned. The first will be held at the Mmabatho Convention Centre on Tuesday, 3 June 2025, from 11:00 to 14:00. The second will take place at the South African State Theatre on Thursday, 5 June 2025, also from 11:00 to 14:00. These gatherings will allow family, friends, and fans to remember Presley and celebrate his contributions to the arts.
His funeral will take place on Saturday, 7 June 2025, at the Akasia Community Hall starting at 08:00 AM. Presley will be laid to rest at Zandfontein Cemetery later that day.
According to SABC News, Hendrick Motsileng, Acting CEO of the Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sports Foundation, reflected on the impact Presley had: “Presley’s achievements in this particular sector have played a very big role in inspiring quite a number of creatives in our province, but not only in our province but also outside our province.”
“Remember that Presley comes from the dusty villages of Mahikeng. So it shows that with consistency, determination and hard work as a young person, you can achieve what you want to achieve,” Motsileng added.
