Presley Chweneyagae Biography
Presley Oageng Chweneyagae, born on October 19, 1984, in Mafikeng, South Africa, is a renowned South African actor, playwright, and director best known for his leading role in the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi (2005).
He began acting at age 10, receiving training at the North West Arts Council and later under playwright Paul Grootboom.
Chweneyagae gained international recognition after Tsotsi won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2006, and he also won Outstanding Performance by an Actor at the Black Movie Awards that year.
He continued to build a successful career in film and theatre, starring in productions such as Relativity (2006), iNumber Number (2013), Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013), The Number (2017), and the TV series The River (2018).
Presley has performed in acclaimed stage plays including Hamlet, Julius Caesar, and Electra, and directed the award-winning stage play Cell No. 4.
As of 2025, he is set to appear in the upcoming film Cobrizi and continues to reside in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Presley Chweneyagae Wikipedia
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Presley Oageng Chweneyagae |
| Date of Birth | October 19, 1984 (Age: 40 years old) |
| Place of Birth | Mafikeng, North West Province, South Africa |
| Ethnicity | Tswana |
| Mother | Agnes Keagile (Police Officer) |
| Named After | Elvis Presley |
| Education | Mmabana Arts, Culture, and Sports Foundation |
| Theatre Background | Performed in Hamlet, Electra, Julius Caesar, and church plays |
| Breakthrough Role | Lead in Tsotsi (2005) |
| Major Award | Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film (Tsotsi, 2006) |
| Other Awards | Black Movie Award (2006), Golden Horn (SAFTAs) for The River |
| Notable Films | Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, iNumber Number, Zama Zama |
| TV Roles | The River as Thuso “Cobra” Mokoena (2018–2021) |
| Upcoming Project | Cobrizi (2025) |
| Spouse | Paulina Chweneyagae |
| Children | Three sons (including Preston and Siya) |
| Estimated Net Worth | $600,000 (approx. R9 million ZAR) |
| @presleychweneyagae | |
| Twitter (X) | @Presley_tsotsi |
| TikTok | @presleychweneyagae |
Presley Chweneyagae Age
As of May 15, 2025, Presley Chweneyagae is 40 years old. He was born on October 19, 1984, in Mafikeng, North West Province, South Africa.
Presley Chweneyagae’s Early Life and Background
Presley Oageng Chweneyagae was born on October 19, 1984, in Mafikeng, located in South Africa’s North West Province.
Growing up during the final years of apartheid, he experienced the challenges faced by black South Africans in townships and homelands.
From a young age, Presley showed a strong interest in acting, encouraged by his mother, who noticed his passion for church dramas.
At just 10 years old, he began formal acting training at the North West Arts Council (now known as The Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sports Foundation).
By age 14, he advanced his craft under the mentorship of prominent playwright and director Mpumelelo Paul Grootboom, taking on various challenging roles in stage productions.
This early foundation laid the groundwork for his successful career in film and theatre.
Presley Chweneyagae Education and Theatre Foundation
Presley Chweneyagae’s formal training in the performing arts began at the age of 10 when he joined drama classes at the North West Arts Council (now The Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sports Foundation).
His passion and talent were further nurtured when, at 14, he enrolled in a drama school led by acclaimed playwright and director Mpumelelo Paul Grootboom.
Under Grootboom’s mentorship, Presley developed his skills by performing in numerous stage plays, including classics like Hamlet, Julius Caesar, and Electra, as well as original works such as Relativity, which he co-wrote.
This solid theatrical foundation paved the way for his transition into film and shaped his dynamic acting style, earning him critical acclaim and a lasting presence in South African theatre and cinema.
Presley Chweneyagae Breakthrough with Tsotsi (2005)
Presley Chweneyagae shot to international fame with his lead role in the critically acclaimed film Tsotsi (2005).
Directed by Gavin Hood and based on Athol Fugard’s novel, the film tells the story of a troubled Johannesburg gang leader who undergoes a powerful journey of redemption after unexpectedly caring for an abandoned baby.
Chweneyagae’s compelling and heartfelt performance earned widespread praise, helping Tsotsi win the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film at the 78th Academy Awards in 2006.
This breakthrough role not only established him as a leading actor in South Africa but also introduced him to global audiences, earning him prestigious awards, including the Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role at the American Black Film Festival.
Presley Chweneyagae Career and Filmography
Since his breakthrough in Tsotsi (2005), Presley Chweneyagae has built a diverse and impactful career in film and theatre.
He has starred in notable films such as iNumber Number (2013), Zama Zama (2013), The Number (2017), The River (2018), and the upcoming Cobrizi (2025).
Beyond the screen, Presley remains active in theatre, collaborating on acclaimed productions like Relativity, which he co-wrote, and directing award-winning plays such as CELL NO 4.
His work consistently highlights South African stories and culture, earning him recognition both locally and internationally as a talented actor and creative force.
Presley Chweneyagae Stage Work & Writing
Presley Chweneyagae’s passion for theatre extends beyond acting to writing and directing.
He co-wrote the internationally acclaimed stage play Relativity, which was also published as a book and performed at venues such as the Traverse Theatre in Edinburgh.
His writing explores complex social themes rooted in South African life.
Additionally, Presley directed the award-winning play CELL NO 4, further showcasing his talents behind the scenes.
His dedication to stage work highlights his versatility and commitment to advancing South African performing arts.
Presley Chweneyagae Awards and International Recognition
Presley Chweneyagae gained global acclaim for his lead role in Tsotsi (2005), which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2006.
His powerful performance earned him the Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role award at the American Black Film Festival the same year, surpassing prominent contenders like Denzel Washington.
This recognition propelled him onto the international stage, where he was celebrated by industry legends such as Spike Lee.
His continued work in film and theatre has solidified his reputation as one of South Africa’s most respected actors, known for his authentic portrayals and dedication to storytelling.
Presley Chweneyagae’s Legacy and Cultural Impact
Presley Chweneyagae’s work has significantly influenced South African cinema and theatre, bringing authentic township stories and post-apartheid realities to a global audience.
His role in Tsotsi not only spotlighted social issues but also helped elevate South African storytelling on the international stage.
Beyond acting, his contributions as a playwright and director, especially through works like Relativity and CELL NO 4, showcase his commitment to nurturing local arts and culture.
Chweneyagae continues to inspire a new generation of artists by demonstrating the power of creative expression in reflecting and transforming society.
Presley Chweneyagae House
When it comes to his private life, Presley Chweneyagae is a private individual.
He has succeeded in keeping his home and family private from the public.
His house has no information that is accessible to the general public.
Presley Chweneyagae Family
Presley Chweneyagae, born on October 19, 1984, in Mafikeng, North West Province, South Africa, was raised in a family of four by his mother, Agnes Keagile, a police officer, and his father, Nkuru Keagile, in Soweto.
His mother named him after her favorite musician, Elvis Presley.
Presley Chweneyagae’s Wife
Chweneyagae is married to Paulina Chweneyagae, a Swazi woman. Together, they have two children: Siya and Preston.
He also has a son from a previous relationship with actress Lerato Mvelase.
The actor has generally kept his personal life private, sharing occasional glimpses on his social media platforms.
In September 2022, Chweneyagae was reportedly arrested near Sunnyside in Pretoria on charges of common assault following an altercation with his wife over car keys.
He later clarified that it was a first-time incident and emphasized that he is not a violent person. The matter was resolved without further legal consequences.
Presley Chweneyagae Arrested for Alleged Domestic Assault
On September 5, 2020, South African actor Presley Chweneyagae, known for his role as Cobra Mokoena on The River, was arrested at the Pretoria North police station on charges of common assault.
The incident reportedly stemmed from an argument with his wife over car keys; she had refused to hand them over, citing concerns about his use of the vehicle.
Chweneyagae claimed that after taking the keys, he left, only to later be contacted by police regarding a case filed against him.
He denied any physical altercation, stating he followed proper procedures by surrendering himself to authorities, and emphasized that it was the first such incident in their relationship.
He also expressed his commitment to combating gender-based violence and affirmed his respect for his wife.
Presley Chweneyagae Net Worth
As of 2025, Presley Chweneyagae’s estimated net worth is approximately $600,000 (around R10 million ZAR).
This wealth has been accumulated through his extensive career in acting, theatre, and various endorsements.
Interesting facts about Presley Chweneyagae
1. Breakout Role: Presley’s breakthrough role was as Tsotsi in the 2005 film Tsotsi, which won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
2. Real-life Inspiration: The movie Tsotsi is based on a novel by Athol Fugard, and Presley’s role brought international spotlight to South African cinema.
3. Theatre Roots: Before acting in films, Presley was heavily involved in theatre and has co-written and directed stage plays.
4. Black Movie Award: He won the Black Movie Award for Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in 2006 for Tsotsi.
5. Community Advocate: Presley is known for his work in community development and often participates in outreach programs in South Africa.
6. Mandela Biopic: He acted in Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013), portraying a role in the iconic story of Nelson Mandela.
7. Versatile Actor: Beyond drama, he has appeared in TV series like The River, showing his range across different genres.
8. Directing: Presley has directed theatre productions, showcasing his skills behind the scenes as well.
9. Social Media Presence: While not extremely active, he uses social media to connect with fans and share insights about his work.
10. Personal Interests: He enjoys engaging in cultural activities and is passionate about uplifting young South African talent.
Presley Chweneyagae Social Media
Instagram: @presleychweneyagae — 123K+ followers
Twitter (X): @Presley_tsotsi
TikTok: @presleychweneyagae — 400+ followers
FAQs
1. Who Is Presley Chweneyagae?
Presley Chweneyagae is a celebrated South African actor born on October 19, 1984, in Mafikeng. He rose to global fame for his role in the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi (2005).
Known for his work in both film and television, especially as Cobra in The River, he is also a playwright and director.
Married to Paulina Chweneyagae and a father of three, Presley remains a key figure in South Africa’s entertainment industry.
2. What made Presley Chweneyagae famous?
He gained international fame for his lead role in the Oscar-winning film Tsotsi (2005), which won Best Foreign Language Film at the 2006 Academy Awards.
3. What is Presley Chweneyagae’s real name?
His full name is Presley Oageng Chweneyagae.
4. Where was he born?
He was born in Mafikeng, North West Province, South Africa, on October 19, 1984.
5. Who inspired his name?
His mother named him after the American music icon Elvis Presley.
6. What is his acting background?
He started acting in church plays and later trained at the Mmabana Arts Foundation, performing in plays like Julius Caesar, Hamlet, and Electra.
7. Is Presley Chweneyagae married?
Yes, he is married to Paulina Chweneyagae, and they have three sons.
8. What TV series is he best known for in South Africa?
He is widely recognized for playing Thuso “Cobra” Mokoena in The River (2018–2021).
9. Has he worked in theatre or writing?
Yes, besides acting, he has written and directed stage plays such as Taking Back the Future and Thato Ya Modimo.
10. Has he faced legal issues?
In 2020, Presley was arrested for allegedly assaulting his wife but was released on bail and awaited trial.
11. What is Presley Chweneyagae’s estimated net worth?
His net worth is estimated to be around $600,000 (approximately R9 million ZAR).
12. What social media platforms is he active on?
He is active on Instagram (@presleychweneyagae), Twitter/X (@Presley_tsotsi), and TikTok (@presleychweneyagae).
13. What upcoming projects is he involved in?
He is set to star in a 2025 drama series titled Cobrizi, a spin-off of The River.
Conclusion
In summary, Presley Chweneyagae is an accomplished actor with an estimated net worth of $600,000. He is a married father of one son who keeps his private affairs private. He was an accomplished soccer player while he was a student at Dinwiddie High School in Dinwiddie. He is humble and committed to his craft despite his success.
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