Legendary actress and beauty queen Cynthia Shange dies aged 76

South Africa is mourning the death of legendary actress and beauty queen Cynthia Shange.

The 76-year-old celebrity passed away in the early hours of Monday morning in a hospital in KwaZulu-Natal following a short illness.

The revered actress was known for her roles in popular TV shows of yesteryear like Deliwe, Shaka Zulu and others.

The entertainment trailblazer rose to prominence in the 1970s when she was crowned Miss Africa South, becoming the first woman to represent South Africa at a Miss World pageant in London.

This was a historic achievement during the apartheid era, where she placed fifth.

Shange went on to feature in TV dramas, showcasing her acting prowess in a variety of shows such as Udeliwe, Shaka Zulu, and Muvhango.

Shange has been honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Saftas, as well as the prestigious Simon Mabhunu Sabela Film and Television Awards, in recognition of her contributions to her craft.

Details of her memorial service and funeral are yet to be announced.

Shange is survived by her four children.