Famous South African Celebrities Who Died in 2023

Lotshiwe Ntuli

Email: plotshiwe@gmail.com

Phone Number: 0728634663

As the year 2023 unfolded, the South African entertainment industry was shrouded in a dark cloud of loss and sorrow. From musicians to actors, sports stars to coaches, Mzansi bid farewell to some of its most famous faces. 

The following are the Mzansi famous faces we lost since the year 2023 began.

One of the first tragedies to strike was the murder of Itumelang Mosoeu, also known as Vusi ma R5. This talented musician, famous for his hit songs Tse nnyane, Thaba to name a few, was gunned down in Soshanguve M17.

In another heartbreaking incident, Kiernan Forbes(35), professionally known as AKA, was tragically shot to death outside the restaurant in the Coastal city of Durban, alongside his close friend, the chef and entrepreneur Tebello ‘Tibz’ Motsone. The CCTV footage captured the moment when a gunman took their lives, leaving fans in disbelief.

The year continued to bring more sorrow with the passing of Costa Titch, a rising star in the music industry. Costa Titch (27), real name Costantinos Tsobanoglu, collapsed during a performance at the Ultra Music Festival. Costa Titch’s sudden death sent shockwaves through the nation, reminding us of the fragility of life.

Not long after, the DSTV Premiership team Richards Bay FC announced the news of death of their Midfielder Siphamandla Mtolo. It was stated that the 29 year old midfielder collapse at training. He was then rushed to hospital after collapsing. Unfortunately, he died underway.His untimely passing was a reminder of the risks athletes face in pursuit of their dreams.

The Industry also mourned the loss of veteran actor Patrick Ndlovu, known for his iconic roles in various TV shows. Ndlovu was well known for his excellent acting role in the drama series Yizo Yizo as a principal, Zone 14(Ntate Moloi) and The Queen (Gold finger) to name a few. Ndlovu died aged 85.

Clive Barker, the legendary former Bafana Bafana coach, also passed away after a battle with Lewy Body Dementia, COSAFA confirmed via family statement. His achievements in leading the South African national team to victory in the Africa Cup of Nations in 1996, will forever be remembered.

The Mandela family was not spared from tragedy, as Nelson Mandela’s granddaughter, Zoleka Mandela, lost her years-long battle with breast cancer. Her strength and resilience in fighting the disease inspired many. In the family statement it was mentioned that Zoleka was later diagnosed with cancer in her liver and lungs.

The year drew to a close with the passing of Lebohang Lettie Mpyana, known for her role in the popular telenovela, Diepcity. A short illness claimed her life, leaving behind a legacy of talent and promise. She was 34.

On 5th November 2023, The DSTV premiership repeatedly lost another player. The Amazulu FC star Bonginkosi Ntuli was reported by the club that he died after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer. He was 32.

Lastly, the year concluded with the tragic loss of multi platinum award-winning star Bulelwa Mkutukana, better known by her stage name Zahara, passed away on the 11th December 2023. It was reported that the 36 year old afro pop died to liver complications.

These untimely deaths created a void that will be felt for years to come. Their voices may have been silenced, but their impact will continue to resonate within the hearts of countless admirers. May their souls rest in eternal peace.