Zenzo Ngqobeโs heartfelt tribute to Presley Chweneyagae
Zenzo Ngqobe has penned an emotional tribute to his lifelong friend and co-star, Presley Chweneyagae. / Instagram
In a heartrending moment for South Africaโs entertainment industry, actor Zenzo Ngqobe has penned an emotional tribute to his lifelong friend and co-star, Presley Chweneyagae, who tragically passed away on May 27, 2025, at the age of 40 due to breathing complications.
The two, both hailing from Mahikeng, North West, shared a bond that transcended the screen, forged in the dusty streets of their hometown and cemented through their remarkable journeys in film and television.
Ngqobe, known for his compelling role as Percy inย The River, took to Instagram to express his grief. He described Chweneyagae, who played Cobra in the telenovela, as his โsoulโs twinโ.
In a post that left fans and colleagues emotional, he wrote: โFrom the dusty streets in Mafikeng to the world stage, we rose side by side. Two boys with a dream, two brothers on a purpose. Pres wasnโt just my co-star; he was my soulโs twin in this journey.โ
Friendship formed before fame
The words capture a friendship that began long before fame, rooted in a shared passion for the arts.
The duoโs paths crossed significantly during their work on the Oscar-winning filmย Tsotsi.ย Chweneyagaeโs raw performance as the lead in the film earned him global acclaim.
Their chemistry continued to shine onย The River. Their on-screen camaraderie on the series mirrored their real-life brotherhood. Ngqobe reflected on Chweneyagaeโs vibrant spirit.
โHis fire burnt bright, his laughter shook rooms, and his spirit lifted us all.โ The loss has left Ngqobe โshatteredโ and in disbelief, with a promise of a fuller tribute when his heart is steady.
Chweneyagaeโs sudden passing has sent shockwaves through Mzansi. Tributes are still pouring in from fans and industry peers.
His portrayal of Cobra, a character beloved for his grit and charm, made him a household name. Beyondย The River, his legacy inย Tsotsiย remains a testament to his talent.
