South African actress Shaleen Surtie-Richards, who won the hearts of millions of viewers with her TV and movie roles, has passed away.
Details surrounding her death are still unknown.
The 66-year-old was a household name as she conquered her role as Ester (Nenna) Willemse on South Africa’s first television soapie, Egoli: Place of Gold.
She also starred in SABC2’s 7 de Laan, Villa Rosa and Generations and hosted her own talk show, Shaleen.
Surtie-Richards also brought her versatility to the stage where she performed in various plays, including the one-woman Shirley Valentine for which she won a Fleur de Cap award.
Her performances on stage locally and internationally and made important contributions to local arts festivals such as the Suidoosterfees, KKNK and the Grahamstown festival.
Surtie-Richards’ management, Elysian Management, took to social media to announce the stalwart’s passing in a statement that read:
“Good Morning All, it is with the deepest regret that we have to inform you that Shaleen Surtie-Richards has passed away.
“We ask that during this time the family and friends be given an opportunity to process this sad news.
“We will give further details as we find out more information. Please allow us the opportunity to inform all the relevant parties.
“This is a major loss to the television and film industry . . . She was and still remains an icon. Our condolences to her family, friends and fans RIP Shaleen.” – IOL