Thuso Mbedu honours memory of her late cousin who died in a car crash

by Zintle Mdaka

US-based South African actress, Thuso Mbedu fondly remembers the laughter and voice of her late cousin, Lusanda in a heartfelt tribute.

Lusanda was involved in a horrific car accident on the 4th of November 2023 and succumbed to her injuries in the hospital. Thuso wistfully remembers how they were together the previous night, even though no pictures and videos were taken at that time as it would have disrupted the flow of their catch-up session. She remembers how she insisted on connecting with her loved ones when she was still in SA, saying she doesn’t know when she will get a chance to see any of them again.

According to the Instagram post, the vehicle that Lusanda and her family members were travelling in was burnt to ashes.

Taking to her Instagram page, the globe-trotter shared the intricate details of the accident and the toll it took on her. She captioned her post: “Most of the moments of the 4th of November do me a favour by evading me but there are others. Driving to the hospital and getting stuck in some random traffic only to find that, as you drive past the cause of the traffic, you see the car your family members were in burnt to a crisp.”

“Nothing remains now but the memories. And now we’ll be looking out for Lusanda’s laugh when her father laughs. Actively listening out for the sound of her voice when her mother speaks. It will be a smell, a touch, a sight- all welcome memories that remind us that our beloved was here giving us everything of herself.”

Instagram users took to the comment section to offer their condolences.

American actress, Viola Davis said: “What a beauty! What a tribute! Love you Thuso.”

Actress Sive Mabuya said: “Sending you so much love and support Thuso. Xola (heal) sisi.”

Thuso is known for roles she portrayed on Saints and Sinners, The Woman King, Is’thunzi, The Underground Railroad and Side Dish.