Presley Chweneyagae would’ve turned 41
Katlego Sekhu

South African actress Mmatshepo Sekgopi has paid tribute to her late friend and The River co-star, Presley Chweneyagae, on what would have been his 41st birthday.
Chweneyagae passed away on Tuesday, 27 May 2025, at the age of 40.
“Happy first heavenly birthday, bro,” wrote Sekgopi. “You’ll always be a general in my books.”
The actress went on to thank the SAFTA Award winner for “everything,” adding, “You have wings now. Fly high.”
Speaking at Chweneyagae’s memorial earlier this year, Sekgopi reflected on the privilege of working alongside one of South Africa’s most celebrated actors.
“My name is Matshepo Sekgopi, and I had the privilege of being chosen to be part of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a body of art that had me working with Africa’s greatest talents, Presley Chweneyagae being one of them.”
She recalled how, at the time, she had no idea what the universe had in store when she joined The River.
“In hindsight, the universe was preparing me for something greater. Little did I know that the short time spent on the show would give me memories that would last a lifetime, an imprint never to be forgotten.”
What began as a typical working relationship quickly evolved into something much deeper.
“There was something beyond what normal colleagues or professionals would experience. There was something that kept us bound, and later, would make us family.”
Sekgopi spoke with admiration about Chweneyagae’s unmatched dedication to his craft and the bond they built off-screen.
“I spent many long days and nights with him. We shared meals, and one thing about him – joy came in the morning. He would wake up and choose to be happy.”
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