It has been a deeply emotional and difficult week for South Africans, as news of the passing of beloved veteran actress Cynthia Shange has left many heartbroken. Across the country, messages of love, support, and sincere condolences have been pouring in from fans, fellow industry colleagues, and members of the public who admired her work and presence on screen. Shange passed away on the morning of Monday, 20 April 2026, at a hospital in KwaZulu-Natal after a period of illness. She was 76 years old at the time of her passing. Widely celebrated for her unforgettable roles as MaNkosi in Muvhango, as well as appearances in Udeliwe, Shaka Zulu, and Inkedama, she leaves behind a powerful legacy that will continue to resonate for years to come. ‘Rest in power, my Queen’ Among those honouring her memory is her lifelong friend and fellow acting icon Thembi Mtshali Jones, who recently shared a touching tribute on her Instagram page. In her message, she opened up about their bond, offering fans a rare and heartwarming glimpse into their decades-long friendship. In her tribute, Thembi wrote: “This was 2017, we were special guests for Women’s day at Diepkloof Community Hall in Soweto. Thando Cynthia, My Queen, my hometown sister. It’s been hard to accept your passing. Born in the same year, we called each other twins, we were. I was at the YMCA in Durban when you were crowned Miss Durban. And due to racial segregation in our country then, you were not permitted to enter the main Miss South Africa competition and instead, the parallel Miss Africa South title that had been created qualified you to compete for Miss World 1972 in London.“It was a significant moment for all of us black girls in our South African history. Your beauty, grace, and courage under restrictive apartheid laws was a big triumph for all of us. After that we watched you representing us, gracing our television screens for many years. Rest in power my Queen. Uyibekile induku ebandla Dumakude. Peace and comfort to your loved ones,” wrote Thembi. HAVE YOU CHECKED OUT THIS ONE?: “I’ll Be Back!” WWE Star Bianca Belair Takes a Break From the Ring to Focus on her Pregnancy Journey Post navigation “I’ll Be Back!” WWE Star Bianca Belair Takes a Break From the Ring to Focus on her Pregnancy Journey
