South African legendary actress Michelle Botes has passed away on Saturday morning at the age of 63 after a long-battle with rare cancer.
According to Afrikaans magazine Bruis,Michelle has lived with her son,Daniel,and his wife,Nolene,in Observatory,Cape Town since her cancer diagnosis in July 2022.She was initially treated with chemotheraphy and steroids and later received a stem transplant,but did not want to continue with that treatment.
South Africans remember her for villain role as Cherel de Villiers Haines in a popular soapie Isidingo which was aired midweek on SABC 3 which played almost a decade.
She played the role Cherel de Villiers Haines for nine years as she joined the cast in 1998 and left in 2007 and rejoined the cast again in 2009.
Over the years,as an actress has played for different Afrikaans television shows such as Binnelanders,Aangetroud and many others.
South African celebrities and politicians flooded social media platforms such as X to remember Michelle Botes for her incredible journey as an actress.
🕊️ The best to ever do it.
When she killed Duncan, her own husband’s son, I knew we had unlocked another level of villain.
Rest in peace Michelle Botes but to us… Cherel Devilliers Haines pic.twitter.com/gplibBAN1J— Anele Mdoda (@Anele) December 21, 2024
We have lost an icon.
Thank you to Michelle Botes for all your commitment and passion over the years. Your characters were a household staple and you brought joy to all those who followed your work over the years. Rest in peace.
Condolences to the Botes family and to all… pic.twitter.com/BSVhL24Fr9— Mmusi Maimane MP (@MmusiMaimane) December 21, 2024
The death of Michelle has left everyone shocked and heartbroken,and most of South Africans believe that nobody will ever replace her in their minds for her sterling work in the entertainment industry.
The South African Film &Television Awards(SAFTAS) has expressed their condolences following untimely death of Michelle Botes.
"We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the legendary Michelle Botes.Her unforgettable performances and iconic roles,including Cherel de Villiers Haines,captivated audiences and left an indelible mark on South African television.
"Michelle's exceptional talent earned her multiple SAFTAs Golden Horn Awards,recognising her brilliance as a performer who elevated the South African entertainment industry.Her elegance,dedication,and passion for her craft will forever be cherished.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family,friends,and colleagues.Rest in peace,Michelle Botes.Your legacy will continue to shine brightly,"said SAFTAS on its Facebook page.
The DStv channel M-Net also conveyed their condolences to the loved ones of Michelle and worshiped her for her incredible journey as an actress.
"It is with great sadness that we bid farewell to veteran actress Michelle Botes,who captivated audiences with her remarkable talent on M-Net's Legacy and kykNET's Binnelanders.
"Michelle's unparalleled grace,depth and dedication to her craft made her a true icon in the South African television industry.Her legacy will live on through the unforgettable characters she brought to life.
Our thoughts are with her family,friends and fans during this difficult time.RIP,Michelle,"said M-Net on Facebook.
She was born in 1962 in Cape Town and attended her secondary education there,then pursued a higher education where she graduated with a degree in speech and drama.