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By Debbie Harrower

Journalist


7 SA celebrities who died way too young

Gone but never forgotten — these local celebrities died way too young.


Simba Mhere (26)

29 October 1988 – 31 January 2015

Simba Mhere

Simba Mhere died in a tragic car accident on William Nicol Drive while on his way to the airport for the 2015 J&B Met in Cape Town. Photo: Gallo images

It feels like just the other day that the news of Simba Mhere’s passing sent shock waves through the country, and yet in a few short months it will be three years since the tragic accident that claimed his life.

He was only 26 at the time. Death is never ever pleasant, but when it takes someone so young with their whole life still ahead of them, it’s too sad for words.

I’ll never forget Simba, out of all the Top Billing presenters, he was by far (and I mean by far!) my favourite. He exuded warmth and seemed so genuine compared to the other presenters who’ve always come across (to me) as fake and pretentious. It would have been wonderful to watch Simba and his career go from strength to strength. R.I.P big guy!

Gugu Zulu (38)

13 May 1978 – 18 July 2016

Gugu+Zulu

Gugu Zulu. Photo: Jackie Clausen

Ashley Callie (32)

30 December 1976 – 15 February 2008

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The memorial service of South African actress Ashley Callie who died as a result of severe head injuries following a car accident.

Brenda Fassie (40)

3 November 1964 – 9 May 2004

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Brenda Fassie, bad girl of South African pop, who got people dancing over the colour line. Picture: Gallo Images/Drum/Media24

Lebo Mathosa (29)

16 July 1977 – 23 October 2006

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Lebo Mathosa was allegedly not wearing a seat belt when the car she was travelling in was involved in an accident. She died in 2006. Image: Facebook

Hansie Cronje (33)

25 September 1969 – 1 June 2002

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Hansie Cronje (L) succeeded Kepler Wessels as Proteas captain. Photo: News Limited.

Senzo Meyiwa (30)

24 January 1984 – 26 October 2014

2014 Nedbank Cup semi final: Maritzburg United v Orlando Pirates

The late Senzo Meyiwa (Photo by Anesh Debiky/Gallo Images)

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