Afrolaud

Remembering Five South African Celebrities Gone Too Soon in 2023

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The 2023 festive season took an unexpected turn with the heartbreaking news of the passing of Bulelwa “Zahara” Mkutukana on December 11. A celebrated singer and songwriter, Zahara was known for her unparalleled vocals and masterful guitar skills.

While the cause of her untimely death remains undisclosed, her family shared a poignant message on social media, urging everyone to remember her life with stories of healing, joy, kindness, and the inspiration she brought through her music. The Afrosoul artist’s memorial service on December 14 marked a somber moment for fans and the industry alike, with the funeral date yet to be announced.

Kiernan “AKA” Forbes: A Legacy Cut Short by Tragedy

February 10, 2023, witnessed the shocking demise of multi-award-winning rapper and music producer Kiernan “AKA” Forbes. A victim of a fatal shooting outside the Wish Restaurant in Durban, AKA’s tragic end left a void in the hearts of fans and loved ones. Known for hits like “Mass Country,” he was not just an artist but a son, father to his beloved daughter Kairo, and a friend to many. A mega memorial service at the Sandton Convention Centre provided solace to grieving fans, yet the investigation into his murder remains ongoing.

Costa Titch: A Rising Star Dimmed Too Soon

March brought another blow to the South African music scene with the sudden death of Costa Titch, born Constantinos Tsobanoglou. The multi-award-winning rapper collapsed on stage at the Ultra SA music festival in Johannesburg, leaving fans in disbelief. Costa Titch, on the verge of a promising career and having recently partnered with American artist Akon, had collaborated with AKA on “You’re Welcome” in 2021. His departure marked a profound loss for the industry, leaving a void that resonated among fellow artists and fans alike.

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Mark Pilgrim: A Radio Legend’s Courageous Battle

March also witnessed the passing of radio personality Mark Pilgrim, aged 53, after a prolonged battle with cancer. Diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in 2022, Pilgrim, a veteran in the field, had previously triumphed over testicular cancer in 1988. Throughout his health journey, he remained resilient, sharing his progress and maintaining high spirits with his followers. Pilgrim’s departure not only marked the loss of a radio icon but also a testament to his enduring spirit in the face of adversity.

Derek Watts: Farewell to a Distinguished TV Anchor

On August 22, the South African entertainment industry bid farewell to renowned TV anchor Derek Watts. Diagnosed with skin cancer in 2022 that later spread to his lungs, Watts spoke candidly about his battle and announced his departure from the long-running investigative journalism show, “Carte Blanche,” a month prior. With a career spanning over 35 years, Watts was remembered as a “gentle giant” at his memorial, where friends, family, and former colleagues paid tribute to his impactful legacy.

In memoriam, these artists have left an indelible mark on South Africa’s entertainment landscape, and their contributions will be cherished for years to come.

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