On Saturday, June 7, 2025, family, friends, fans, and colleagues gathered in Pretoria to say their final goodbye to 40-year-old actor Presley “Cobrizi” Chweneyagae, known for his Oscar-winning role in Tsotsi and as Cobra Mokoena in the television series The River sabcnews.com+15ecr.co.za+15iol.co.za+15.
Funeral Ceremonies & Burial
- A service was held at Akasia Community Hall, following a memorial in Mahikeng on June 5 and another at the South African State Theatre ewn.co.za+5iol.co.za+5iharare.com+5.
- He was laid to rest at Zandfontein Cemetery ecr.co.za+13ewn.co.za+13iol.co.za+13.
Memories Shared by Loved Ones
From His Wife & Children
A recorded tribute from his wife, Charlaine, was played: “He was a funny, loving guy, very ambitious… a soft, gentle man who was humble and respectful,” she said, describing how he was “unmatched” in his work ethic iol.co.za. Their sons also shared cherished memories of music lessons and school drop-offs .
Friends & Co‑stars
- Zenzo Ngqobe, co-star in Tsotsi, recalled how Presley discussed future acting plans just weeks before his passing, calling their bond “‘God’s plan’” and expressing profound loss en.wikipedia.org+7ecr.co.za+7ewn.co.za+7.
- Warren Masemola, also his close friend and The River co-star, gave a deeply emotional eulogy: “I don’t understand people who don’t fight with their friends… we loved each other a lot.”
He spoke of their arguments over life, family, and work, noting that true friendship includes both support and challenge en.wikipedia.org+8ecr.co.za+8iol.co.za+8briefly.co.za. - Bonga Vilakazi, producer of The River, described the group as a family born from long hours together, celebrating Presley’s “dazzling light” and his humanity iol.co.za.
- Thembinkosi Mthembu, who played Mabutho on The River, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram: “Ulalekahle bhuti omdala… Izobonana ekuseni.” (Rest in peace big brother… we’ll meet again in the morning) youtube.com+13briefly.co.za+13briefly.co.za+13.
A Gentle Spirit Remembered
Loving, hardworking, and deeply caring—that’s how Presley is being remembered. His family portrays him as a devoted husband and father (he passed away peacefully on May 27 from natural respiratory complications) iol.co.za.
Legacy & Community Reaction
Presley’s passing has resonated deeply within South African entertainment. His wife’s poignant words played at the burial, and the visible grief of loved ones, underscored the tremendous impact he had on those around him .
His funeral also sparked broader reflection across the nation:
- Briefly covered Connie Ferguson’s absence from the service and subsequent public reaction briefly.co.za+3briefly.co.za+3briefly.co.za+3.
- Briefly reported a viral portrait by artist Rasta, sparking mixed reactions briefly.co.za+1briefly.co.za+1.
Final Thoughts
The installation of a guard of honour, the fierce loyalty among co-stars, and the deeply personal tributes from those closest to him—all paint a picture of a man whose light will continue to shine. Presley Chweneyagae’s passion for acting and his generous spirit have left an indelible mark on South African culture.
He may be gone, but his humor, dedication, and the warmth he shared with so many will resonate across stage and screen for years to come.
