South African actress Michelle Botes, renowned for her captivating performances on television, has died at the age of 63. Her demise occurred on the morning of December 21, 2023, at her home in Cape Town, sending shockwaves through the entertainment industry. The news was confirmed by Botes's talent agency, Oh Talent Management, to News24.
"We are very saddened by the news. She was an icon of our industry. Michelle had grace and a beautiful spirit. She will be greatly missed," said actor's agent Suzi Howes, reflecting the deep sense of loss felt by many. Tributes have been pouring in from fans and colleagues, cementing Botes's legacy as one of South Africa's beloved actresses.
Botes had been bravely battling advanced multiple myeloma, which she revealed in July 2022 during her interview with the Afrikaans magazine Bruis. This rare and incurable form of blood cancer impacts the bone marrow, and her struggle included numerous treatments such as chemotherapy, steroids, and eventually, a stem cell transplant. Unfortunately, by October 2023, doctors informed her family and herself of the grim prognosis, giving her only two to three months to live due to the alarming rise in her cancer count.
Seeking alternative healing ways, Botes began exploring more holistic, less invasive treatments; yet, reports indicated she had weakened considerably over the recent weeks leading to her death. Despite the challenges she faced, Botes remained steadfast and inspiring to those around her.
Fans and fellow actors have taken to social media to commemorate her life and contributions to South African entertainment. Botes's extensive television credits include roles on hit shows like Seeduiker, Die Swart Kat, and Binnelanders. She rose to fame as the villainous Cherel de Villiers-Haines on the soap opera Isidingo, where her complex portrayal garnered her multiple Safta nominations for Best Actress between 2006 and 2012.
Her extraordinary talent did not go unnoticed, as she won the Golden Horn for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Angelique Price in the telenovela Legacy in 2021, and later, the award for Best Actress in 2023.
Reflecting on their memories, Casey B Dolan, who worked alongside Botes on Isidingo, expressed her sorrow over the actress's passing, stating, "I worked with Michelle and always had a wonderful time. I'm so sorry to hear of her passing. Love and peace to her family and loved ones." Another colleague, Anton Dekker, shared heartfelt sentiments, remembering Botes as exceptional: "Gorgeous Michelle Botes, legendary actress, passed away earlier this morning. I will always cherish her exuberant laugh and professionalism. The world is poorer without you. A pure gem’s sparkle was muted this morning."
The political party Rise Mzansi also extended condolences, stating, "Rise Mzansi extends heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and fans of renowned actress Michelle Botes. She was widely celebrated for her iconic role as Cherel de Villiers on the SABC3 soap opera Isidingo and for her immense contribution to South Africa's entertainment industry, leaving an indelible mark on television and storytelling."
Botes's career began with her screen debut back in 1976 and spanned nearly five decades, during which she left audiences entranced by her performances. Her roles took her from theatre to various television series, but it was her unforgettable role on Isidingo and later Legacy where she truly made her mark.
She is survived by her two children, Cara and Daniel, whom she shares with ex-husband Ian Roberts. Fans continue to share their memories and tributes across social media platforms, underscoring the impact she had on both her colleagues and the viewing public.
Michelle Botes's passing is undoubtedly felt as a monumental loss to the South African arts community, but her legacy as a beloved actress and inspiration for many will endure.
