South African actress Tsholofelo “Tsholo” Matshaba has opened up about her emotional journey following the loss of her husband, radio personality Chris Matshaba, who passed away in 2018 after a battle with cancer. In a recent interview, the House of Zwide star reflected on how she has managed to cope with the heartbreak and how her work in the entertainment industry has played a pivotal role in her healing.
Tsholo, widely recognised for her performances in popular productions such as Muvhango, The River, and now House of Zwide, revealed that returning to work soon after her husband’s passing became a form of therapy. “We, as performers, know that our work is also its therapy; it heals,” she told Daily Sun.
At the time of Chris’s death, Tsholo was busy shooting Muvhango and working on the SABC2 comedy series Skwizas. She described this period as both emotionally challenging and unexpectedly comforting, as her work allowed her to channel her energy into storytelling while slowly processing her grief.
Tsholo and Chris tied the knot on 27 December 2014 in Ramokokastad, North West. Their marriage lasted only three years before Chris’s untimely death in February 2018. “Never did I think we would go through ‘til death do us part’ only three years into our marriage,” she once wrote in a heartfelt social media post. Chris, known for his charismatic presence on Motsweding FM alongside co-host Tshepo Maseko, left behind a legacy admired by many radio listeners.
Over the years, Tsholo has continued to share memories of her late husband on her social media platforms, often receiving messages of comfort and support from fans. Many South Africans have expressed their admiration for her strength, while also sharing their own experiences with loss.
One fan wrote, “Healing comes in waves. Maybe the wave hit the rock. I pray for you to be strong and courageous. I, too, am bleeding. I lost my mom three months ago. It cuts deep every day. I can’t imagine how you are feeling, but you are strong, sis, hang in there.” Others fondly remembered Chris’s radio work, with one commenting, “The way I used to enjoy his show… he made me fall in love with Setswana.”
Tsholo’s journey through grief has not stopped her from excelling in her craft. Her portrayal of Maria on House of Zwide has further cemented her reputation as a versatile and talented actress. Despite facing personal challenges, she continues to deliver compelling performances that resonate deeply with audiences.
Her story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. While she admits the pain of losing Chris will always remain, her passion for acting has provided a space for healing and self-expression. “He is in a much better place and is looking down on you always,” one supporter reminded her — words that reflect the comfort many hope she carries with her.
Through her work and her openness about grief, Tsholo Matshaba has shown that healing is not a straight path but a continuous process — one that can be made gentler by purpose, passion, and the love of those who remember and care.
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