Tumi Chiume, the son of veteran actress Connie Chiume, has spoken out about the harsh working conditions his mother endured before her unexpected passing last week.
VETERAN ACTRESS PASSES AWAY AFTER MEDICAL PROCEDURE
Connie Chiume, beloved for her roles in Rhythm City, Gomora, Black Panther, Black Is King, and Blessers, passed away last week after undergoing a medical procedure at Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg. Her funeral service was held on Thursday, August 15, at the Oasis of Life Family Church in Daveyton.
TUMI CHIUME SPEAKS OUT ABOUT HIS MOTHER’S STRUGGLE
During the service, Tumi shared the emotional toll his mother’s career took on her. He revealed that despite being 72 years old, Connie was forced to endure grueling 16-hour workdays. “Is it fair to work a 70-year-old 16 hours a day?” Tumi asked mourners.
He continued, “She was fighting for the industry, and I saw it all from behind the scenes—it was painful for me. She was not rewarded as she deserved to be and was in pain because the industry worked her so hard.”
In a powerful plea, Tumi urged those gathered to stand up for their rights, especially during Women’s Month. “On behalf of Mama, I’m begging you—please stand up and fight for your rights.”
CONTINUING THE FIGHT
Connie’s daughter, Thando, echoed her brother’s sentiments, vowing to continue her mother’s fight for better conditions in the industry. “I am willing to go the extra mile to achieve the goals my mom would have wanted to accomplish,” she said.
CONNIE CHIUME’S LEGACY AND INDUSTRY CHALLENGES
Throughout her decades-long career, Connie Chiume was outspoken about the challenges actors face, including poor salaries, exploitation, and a lack of longevity. In an interview with Power FM, she lamented the absence of a strong union for actors, saying, “We’ve been in the industry for so long. Most of the people we started with dwindled. We don’t see them anymore.”
She also highlighted the lack of unity and transparency within the industry, pointing out that actors don’t have a single, strong voice to advocate for their rights.
WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE?
As the industry mourns the loss of one of its brightest stars, the question remains: What can be done to ensure that actors are treated fairly and with respect? Connie Chiume’s story is a stark reminder that change is needed—and that it’s long overdue.