Veteran South African actress Mary Twala has died at age 80.
Her son, media personality Somizi Mhlongo-Motaung, announced the news on Saturday, 4 July.
Taking to social media, Somizi confirmed the death of his mother in a Twitter post dedicated to her: “My tree has fallen........lala Ma” along with a picture. The cause of her death is still unknown.
My tree has fallen........lala Ma pic.twitter.com/CjojR7k2uX
— somizi somGAGA (@somizi) July 4, 2020
President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his deep sadness at her passing.
The distinguished Thespian was awarded the Order of Ikhamanga in 2019 in recognition of the versatility and longevity of her creative career.
During her career, Ms. Twala-Mhlongo starred in many TV and film productions such as Sarafina, A Love in Africa and Taxi to Soweto, for which she won a Best Supporting Actress award.
President Ramaphosa extends his deep condolences to Ms. Twala-Mhlongo’s family and friends.
“Like millions of South Africans, I am saddened by the passing of a great icon of our nation’s creative community; someone who was a household name and face to all of us and brought home the joys, the struggles and the humour under pressure that characterises our national life,” Ramaphosa said.
“We have lost a unique talent and an endearing human being whose performances brought to life the meaning of being South African, and appealed to South Africans of all generations. We will miss her dearly.”
Like millions of South Africans, I am saddened by the passing of a great icon of our nation’s creative community; someone who was a household name and face to all of us and brought home the joys, the struggles and the humour under pressure that characterises our national life. pic.twitter.com/3EPIRB7Sf7
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 #StaySafe (@CyrilRamaphosa) July 4, 2020