We all hope to see our favorite celebrities live long and fulfilling lives.
However, fate sometimes has different plans, and some of South Africa’s most talented stars were taken too soon, leaving fans heartbroken and wondering about the legacies they could have built.
Here are 10 South African celebrities who tragically passed away before the age of 30.
1. Akhumzi Jezile
Born on January 15, 1989, Akhumzi Jezile was a beloved South African actor, television presenter, and producer.
He gained popularity as a presenter on SABC’s YoTV and was voted the most popular kids’ show presenter in 2009.
Jezile also made his mark in acting, starring in Tempy Pushas, a role that earned him a SAFTA award for Best Supporting Actor.
In 2018, at the peak of his career, he tragically lost his life in a car accident while traveling with friends.
The incident was a devastating blow to the entertainment industry, with many local celebrities paying tribute to his incredible talent.
He was only 29 years old.
2. Dumi Masilela
Dumi Masilela was a multi-talented star, known for his roles as an actor, musician, and former football player.
After suffering a career-ending leg injury in soccer, he pursued music and competed in Idols SA in 2012, which led to his acting career on
Rhythm City.
In August 2017, just three months after marrying actress Simphiwe Ngema, Dumi was tragically shot in a hijacking incident.
His friend rushed him to the hospital, but he sadly succumbed to his injuries.
The suspects were later arrested and charged with his murder.
Dumi’s passing at the age of 29 left a void in the South African entertainment world.
3. Lebo Mathosa
Lebo Mathosa was a legendary South African kwaito singer, actress, and dancer.
Starting her career with the iconic band Boom Shaka at just 17, she quickly became one of the most successful female artists in a male-
dominated industry.
She won multiple South African Music Awards and was often compared to her mentor, Brenda Fassie.
Tragically, in 2006, at the age of 29, she lost her life in a car accident after her driver lost control of the vehicle.
Her legacy continues to inspire musicians, and a biopic titled Dream: The Lebo Mathosa Story was released in 2019.
4. Simba Mhere
Simba Mhere was a well-known television presenter, famous for hosting Top Billing after winning a televised presenter search in 2010.
Despite being born in Zimbabwe, he grew up in South Africa and became a household name.
In 2015, at just 26 years old, he died in a tragic car accident.
His friend, who was in the car with him, also lost their life, while his father survived the crash.
The driver responsible for the accident was found guilty of culpable homicide and sentenced to 10 years in prison.
5. Marubini Mohale
A beloved actress known for her role in Backstage, Marubini Mohale was also in a relationship with fellow actor Clint Brink.
In 2002, she died at just 21 years old when the car she was traveling in with Clint and her sister overturned.
While her sister and Clint survived, Marubini did not.
Clint was initially charged with culpable homicide, but he was later acquitted.
6. Senzo Meyiwa
Senzo Meyiwa was a talented South African footballer who played as a goalkeeper for Orlando Pirates and the national team.
In 2014, he was shot and killed while at the home of his then-girlfriend, singer Kelly Khumalo.
Initial reports suggested he was protecting Kelly from a robbery, but it was later revealed that there was no robbery, and he was shot during
an argument.
Although he had just turned 30, his tragic passing left the nation in shock, and justice for his case is still unresolved.
7. Sibusiso Khwinana
An up-and-coming actor, Sibusiso Khwinana played the lead role in the film Matwetwe, co-produced by DJ Black Coffee.
With a promising future ahead, he was tragically killed at the age of 25, just three months after the movie’s release.
During an attempted robbery, he was stabbed to death while struggling with the attacker over his phone.
At the time of his passing, he was studying to become a director and producer.
8. Reeva Steenkamp
Reeva Steenkamp was a South African model and the first face of Avon Cosmetics in the country.
In 2013, on Valentine’s Day, she was shot and killed by her boyfriend, Oscar Pistorius, who claimed he mistook her for an intruder.
Initially sentenced to six years, his prison term was later extended to 13 years.
Her tragic death at the age of 29 remains one of the most high-profile cases in South African history.
9. TK Mhinga
TK Mhinga was a talented R&B singer often compared to Mariah Carey and Beyoncé.
In 2006, she was found dead in her hotel room at the age of 27.
Authorities concluded that she died from a drug overdose or drug-induced suicide.
Her death led many to compare her to members of the infamous “27 Club” of celebrities who passed away at the same age.
10. Precious Simelane
Precious Simelane was a beloved actress and television presenter.
Unlike the others on this list, she passed away from a natural illness at the age of 27.
Her untimely passing remains a mystery, as the exact cause of her illness was never publicly disclosed.
These young stars left an indelible mark on South African entertainment despite their short lives.
Which of these celebrities do you miss the most? Let us know in the comments.
