Johannesburg – Cynthia Shange, the trailblazing actress and beauty queen who made history as the first black woman to represent South Africa at Miss World, died in the early hours of Monday in a hospital in KwaZulu-Natal after an illness. She was 76.
Her family confirmed the news, describing her as “a legendary figure in South African arts and culture” who “left an indelible mark as a beauty queen and a revered actress.”
“With profound sadness, the family of Cynthia Shange shares the news of her passing at the age of 76,” the family said. “Shange, a legendary figure in South African arts and culture, left an indelible mark as a beauty queen and a revered actress. She passed away in the early hours of today in a hospital in KwaZulu-Natal after facing illness.” 
Shange’s place in history was secured in 1972 when she was crowned Miss Africa South, making her the first black woman to win a Miss South Africa title and represent the country on the global stage. This was during the era of segregated pageantry, nearly two decades before Miss South Africa became inclusive in 1992. She went on to represent South Africa at Miss World in London that same year.
Her contribution to the entertainment industry went beyond the pageant stage. In 1975, she became the lead star of South Africa’s first black feature film, Udeliwe, opposite the late Joe Mafela and directed by the late Simon Sabela. The isiZulu TV drama also became one of her most celebrated roles, with the family saying “her acting prowess shone in the beloved isiZulu TV drama Udeliwe, where she captivated audiences with her compelling performances.”
She also starred as Mkabi in the five-part mini-series Shaka Zulu and featured in several programmes through the 1990s before taking on a role in the SABC2 soapie Muvhango, where she earned admiration across generations as a respected elder stateswoman of the industry.
Her exceptional work earned her lifetime achievement awards from both the South African Film and Television Awards and the prestigious Simon Mabhunu Sabela TV and Film Awards.
Shange is survived by her daughters Sihle and Nonhle, her sons Ayanda and Benele Thema, as well as her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was also the mother of prominent media personality Nonhle Thema.
“Her exceptional contributions were honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the South African Film and TV Awards and the prestigious Simon Mabhunu Sabela TV and Film Awards, celebrating her dedication and impact in the industry,” the family said. “Shange is survived by her daughters, Sihle and Nonhle, and sons, Ayanda and Benele Thema, as well as her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will continue to honour her legacy.”
Memorial and burial details are yet to be announced as the family prepares to celebrate her extraordinary life and achievements.
