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By Gift Sebiloane
Johannesburg – South Africa mourns the loss of celebrated actress Michelle Botes, best known for her unforgettable portrayal of Cherel de Villiers in the iconic soap opera ‘Isidingo‘. Botes passed away today after a valiant fight against cancer.
Botes’ captivating performance as the complex and often ruthless Cherel cemented her place as a legend of South African television. Her time on the SABC3 soapie marked a defining era for the show, and her character remains etched in the memories of viewers.
But Botes’ talent extended far beyond the confines of Horizon Deep. Her acting career spanned decades and encompassed a diverse range of productions. From her early work in television series like ‘Arende‘ to her more recent role in the drama ‘Legacy,’ Botes consistently demonstrated her versatility and depth as an actress. She graced the stage in numerous theatre productions and also made her mark on the big screen with appearances in films such as ‘Liewe Hemel‘ and ‘Genis!‘
Born in Cape Town in 1962, Botes was admired not only for her acting prowess but also for her elegance, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to her craft. Colleagues remember her as a consummate professional, a generous mentor, and a true inspiration.
The news of her passing has triggered a wave of grief and tributes from fans and fellow South African television stars, among them is former Muvhago actress Florence Masebe, who shared a heartfelt tweet belo.
Former DA leader Mmusi Maimane, currently the leader of Build One South, thanked her for the profound impact she had on the South African entertainment industry over the years, saying: “Your characters were a household staple and you brought joy to all those who followed your work over the years. Rest in peace.”
Botes is survived by her two children. Details regarding memorial services are forthcoming.
