South Africa is still reeling after a surprising incident at the funeral of award-winning actor Presley Chweneyagae. The burial, which took place on Saturday, June 7, became a hot topic on social media after Chweneyagae’s coffin got stuck while being lowered into the ground. The moment was captured on video and quickly went viral, sparking emotional reactions and speculation among Mzansi citizens.
Presley Chweneyagae, widely known for his iconic role in Tsotsi and his recent work on The River, was laid to rest at the age of 40. What should have been a solemn farewell took an unexpected turn when the coffin refused to descend smoothly. Many South Africans interpreted the event as a symbolic struggle, jokingly suggesting that the actor “didn’t want to go.”
Adding to the emotional weight of the day was the heart-wrenching sight of Chweneyagae’s wife, Charlaine Kirk, breaking down in tears. Surrounded by family and children, she wept uncontrollably as the coffin struggled to be lowered. The footage, shared by Newzroom Afrika, showed the family’s raw grief, which struck a chord with viewers across the country.
As the video spread, social media users shared their thoughts, some offering condolences while others speculated about the significance of the incident. One user, @Tinyiko08921892, commented, “He doesn’t wanna go, we can all see the box didn’t wanna go down.” Others reflected on the emotional tributes paid by friends and colleagues, including a touching moment when actor Warren Masemola delivered a speech with Chweneyagae’s white coffin visible in the background.
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However, not all comments were sympathetic. Some users criticized the spectacle surrounding modern funerals, saying they have become extravagant events rather than private farewells for grieving families. “Black funerals are now extravagant, exorbitant, and have become a lifestyle,” said @ntovholeni1. Others questioned the authenticity of emotional displays, with one remarking, “I have a problem with actors crying in real life. It feels like they are acting.”
Despite differing opinions, the overarching sentiment was one of loss. Fans remembered Chweneyagae not just for his performances but also for his contributions to South African storytelling. Tributes poured in from fans and industry peers alike. One user, @Remiazania2, wrote, “Very honest and touching tribute to his friend and to a South African great actor who made us identify with every character he portrayed. Rest in peace, Cobra.”
Adding further to the emotional atmosphere, a close friend of Chweneyagae spoke about the actor’s final moments, recounting how he was with the paramedics during his last breath. His death marks the end of a remarkable journey for one of South Africa’s finest actors, whose roles in Tsotsi, The River, and iNumber Number left a lasting legacy.
While his coffin may have momentarily resisted its descent, Presley Chweneyagae’s impact on South African cinema and television will forever remain grounded in the hearts of his fans.