When couples vow “until death do us part,” the expectation is a lifetime together. However, life can take unexpected turns, leaving many to navigate the painful journey of loss. Here, we highlight eight South African celebrities who have faced this heart-wrenching reality.

1. Zolo Majawa

Zolo Majawa, known for her role as Zodwa on the SABC2 soap opera “7de Laan,” married former radio presenter Chris Mashaba in December 2014. Tragically, Chris succumbed to cancer in February 2018 after a prolonged battle.

Zolo has frequently shared memories of her late husband on social media, reflecting on the deep emotional scars left by his passing. In a poignant letter, she expressed how the pain of losing him still resonates deeply, and she cherishes the love they shared.

2. Siphiwe Mlambo

Actress Siphiwe Mlambo, celebrated for her role as Thuli on “7de Laan,” married actor Dumi Masilela in 2017. Sadly, just two months after their wedding, Dumi was killed during a car hijacking. At only 27, Siphiwe found herself a widow.

In tribute, she released a heartfelt song dedicated to her late husband. Recently, she has embraced motherhood, welcoming a son in 2020, which sparked some controversy regarding the timing of the announcement.

3. Wiseman Mncube

Wiseman Mncube, renowned for his role in “Uzalo,” lost his wife in 2017, leaving him to raise their young daughter alone. Wiseman has committed himself to being a dedicated father, ensuring that their daughter feels loved and supported despite her mother’s absence. While he remains private about the circumstances surrounding his wife’s death, he expresses gratitude for the family support he receives in his parenting journey.

4. Lerato Sengadi

Lerato Sengadi gained recognition as a contestant on “Big Brother Africa” and was married to Motswako rapper HHP, who struggled with mental health issues before his passing in 2018.

Following his death, Lerato faced challenges from HHP’s family regarding the legitimacy of their marriage. After a lengthy legal battle, the Supreme Court confirmed her status as his widow, allowing her to honor his memory with a tombstone, which she plans to erect post-lockdown.

5. Temsisa Ndlovu

Temsisa Ndlovu, an actress known for her roles in “The Queen” and “Rhythm City,” experienced a devastating loss when her husband drowned in 2019. She discovered his body after he had gone to the store. Despite the traumatic nature of his passing, Temsisa has found strength in her children, who have helped her navigate the grief.

6. Ayanda Gani

Ayanda Gani, recognized as the manager of late gospel star Sfiso Ncwane, married him in 2002. Sfiso’s death in 2016 due to kidney complications left Ayanda to care for their two children. Currently, she faces a legal battle from Sfiso’s children from a previous relationship, challenging her control over his estate.

7. Lize Joubert

Lize Joubert, an adventure enthusiast and former contestant on “Fear Factor South Africa,” lost her husband, motorsport star Gugu Zulu, during a charity climb of Mount Kilimanjaro in 2016. In his honor, Lize retrained to summit the mountain herself and penned a book titled “I Choose to Live: Life After Losing Gugu,” detailing her grief and resilience.

8. Keshni Rull

Keshni Rull, known for her work on “Our Perfect Wedding,” lost her husband Farai Sibanda in a tragic car accident in 2019, just months after their marriage. Since his passing, Keshni has found solace in their young son, often honoring her husband’s memory through social media posts.

These stories of resilience and love highlight the strength these celebrities exhibit as they navigate life after loss.