Legendary South African actress Mary Twala has died at the age of 80.
Details surrounding Twala’s death are still unclear, but news of her passing was revealed by her son, Somizi Mhlongo, through a post on Twitter on Saturday.
My tree has fallen……..lala Ma pic.twitter.com/CjojR7k2uX
— somizi somGAGA (@somizi) July 4, 2020
The icon has featured in several local productions, including the very first season of Generations.
In 2007, she starred in the drama Ubizo: The Calling, which explored issues on the tradition of Ubungoma in South Africa.
In a separate post on Twitter, Somizi shared that his mother’s death coincides with his late father’s birthday.
He said: “Today’s my late father’s birthday and my mom decided to respond to his call to join him in heaven. The tree has fallen. I am shattered to the core, but I’d be very selfish if I don’t release her.”
Last year, the veteran actress received the Order of Ikhamanga for her contribution to the performing arts.
She had an extensive career as an actress, performing in roles in film and theatre. Her career includes international films such as Mapantsula and Sarafina!, among others.
Check tributes shower in from heartbroken South Africans and Fans:
Mary Twala 💔#RIPMaryTwala… deepest condolences to you brother @somizi. May her soul rest in perfect and eternal peace! Her impact on our screens was thorough, complete and indisputably legendary! pic.twitter.com/G9DHcoPyMy
— Mbuyiseni Ndlozi (@MbuyiseniNdlozi) July 4, 2020
A South African icon, a gift to the arts and the world, an inspiration to many of us and an amazing entertainer, my deepest condolences to the family, uthixo anithuthuzele 🙏🏾💔 #RIPMaryTwala pic.twitter.com/BT8AbDYvde
— Vuyolwethu Ngcukana (@vuyomse) July 4, 2020
The last time I saw her on TV was at Somizi’s wedding. I’ll never forget the look she gave Somizi before he walked down the aisle🥺 that woman loved her son & was proud as hell❤ #RIPMaryTwala pic.twitter.com/VEIt0gk0cv
— Siviwe (@me_siviwe) July 4, 2020
I remember the look on her face on the wedding day. That was a very special moment, so profound and heartfelt. It was beautiful to watch the unconditional love she showed her son. Rest In Peace Ndlovukazi.❤️🕯🙏🏽 #RIPMaryTwala 💐 pic.twitter.com/JDbRFugwDf
— ••beautiful boy•• (@_Sphoenix_) July 4, 2020
Appreciation tweet for her let’s show her some love may your soul rest in peace ma #RIPmaryTwala pic.twitter.com/IfJM7ax5xb
— Diego_Chuene (@Diegochuene) July 4, 2020
A legend has fallen… May your soul rest in peace 💔
#RIPMaryTwala pic.twitter.com/Ur2gpbhobZ
— iG-Sotho_Bae🇩🇪 (@SothoBae) July 4, 2020
We lost a mother, a grandmother, an artist and a legend. We’ll be forever thankful for time you dedicate just to make us happy with your God-given talent. #RIPMaryTwala♥️🕊 pic.twitter.com/sAlE8cRRbQ
— Siyasamkela (@SiyaMtitshana) July 4, 2020
She’s a life worth celebrating. My her soul rest in eternal greatness…. #RIPMaryTwala pic.twitter.com/t80iBug7cx
— Cellular ❁ (@robzinterris) July 4, 2020
Rest in Peace
You fought a good fight#RIpMaryTwala pic.twitter.com/9h6tZ9Cr3F
— Bumani (@BumaniGuyu) July 4, 2020
Life is something else🥺 #RIPMaryTwala you’ll forever be in our hearts♥️🕊 https://t.co/F2Ca69DaNH
— Siyasamkela (@SiyaMtitshana) July 4, 2020
I’m really at a loss for words..
Phumula manje… what a great loss 💔Till we meet again 🕊
#RIPMaryTwala pic.twitter.com/NDCnZUyIja
— Gabadiya 🤍 (@_MveloMakhanya) July 4, 2020
Heartfelt condolences @somizi, on the passing of your mom. May memories shared act as a source of solace for you, your family and your mom’s fans. #RIPMaryTwala https://t.co/C9cSvLxCK6
— Prof Thuli Madonsela (@ThuliMadonsela3) July 4, 2020
She passes away on her late husbands birthday. Both of them made our childhood. It’s now time for her to descend to heaven and join him on that eternal love. #RIPMaryTwala pic.twitter.com/OOOMHeYvfF
— ♔ChiefMluh♔ (@ChiefMluh) July 4, 2020
Even in her old age Mme Mary Twala was still a leading star.
A great loss to our industry. ❤️#RIPMaryTwala https://t.co/x5pOQLhHjh
— Kgopolo (@PhilMphela) July 4, 2020
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