Thabiso Ramotshela’s Heartfelt Memorial Speech for Presley Chweneyagae: A Touching Tribute That Left Everyone in Tears

Thabiso Ramotshela began by recalling the moment he received the devastating news of Presley’s passing.

The shock and disbelief were palpable as he described how difficult it was to hear that someone he loved and respected so deeply was gone.

Despite not being Presley’s biological son, Thabiso called him “dad” because Presley had raised him and cared for him like family.

He shared touching memories of Presley’s kindness and support on set, especially during tough times.

Presley would check in on him and others, offering encouragement and reassurance.

“Boy, boy, I know I don’t express myself a lot, but I got you,” Thabiso remembered Presley saying.

This deep bond transcended their professional relationship, becoming a genuine family connection.

Thabiso spoke about the pain of not being able to see Presley again—whether on set, on television, or in everyday life.

The cruel finality of death hit him hard, and he lamented how unpredictable and unfair it felt.

Yet, he also honored Presley as a legend who brought pride to South Africa, notably through his Oscar-winning work.

He revealed how much Presley’s approval meant to him personally.

Thabiso confessed that he was often hard on himself because he wanted to live up to Presley’s expectations.

Hearing that Presley admired his work was one of the greatest honors he could imagine.

“I miss you so much. I love you so much, Papa,” he said, his voice thick with emotion.

The speech also touched on the intense working conditions actors face in South Africa.

Thabiso explained how actors work almost every day, often five times a week, with little rest.

This relentless schedule means that colleagues become like family, blurring the lines between work and life.

“It doesn’t feel like work anymore,” he said.

“You are my father, my mother, my sister.”

Thabiso highlighted the financial struggles many actors endure despite their fame.

Contrary to public perception, many celebrities do not live lavish lifestyles.

Instead, they often face financial hardships, sometimes unable to afford private healthcare even when seriously ill.

He pointed out the unfairness of this reality, especially when compared to actors abroad who may earn far more despite lesser talent.

He also lamented the ongoing lack of change in the industry.

At every memorial and funeral, actors voice concerns about being underpaid and overworked, but these calls for reform rarely lead to concrete improvements.

Thabiso expressed frustration that Presley’s passing would likely be no different—his death a tragic reminder of systemic issues that remain unaddressed.

Thabiso’s speech was not only a tribute to Presley but also a rallying cry for better treatment of artists in South Africa.

He urged the industry and the public to recognize the sacrifices actors make and to push for fairer pay and working conditions.

Throughout his speech, Thabiso balanced grief with gratitude, sorrow with hope.

His heartfelt words painted a vivid picture of Presley as a loving mentor and a beloved figure in the entertainment community.

The audience could feel the depth of his loss and the strength of his admiration.

As Thabiso concluded, he thanked everyone for their support during this difficult time.

His emotional delivery, marked by tears and pauses, underscored the profound impact Presley had on those around him.

The speech left many in the audience crying, moved by the sincerity and vulnerability he displayed.

Thabiso Ramotshela’s memorial speech was a powerful reminder of the human side of celebrity—the friendships, struggles, and love that define lives behind the scenes.

His tribute honored Presley Chweneyagae’s legacy while shedding light on the urgent need for change in South Africa’s entertainment industry.

In the wake of this heartfelt farewell, the message is clear: it is time to support and uplift the artists who enrich our culture, ensuring they are valued not just in words but in fair treatment and respect.

Presley’s legacy lives on not only through his work but through the love and lessons he left behind.