Talented actress, presenter, and writer Crystal-Donna Roberts has died at 41.
Image: Instagram
The South African entertainment industry is mourning the loss of talented actress, presenter and writer, Crystal-Donna Roberts who died peacefully in her sleep.
Roberts, who was renowned for her impressive roles in films such as "Krotoa" and "The Endless River" as well as her work in television shows such as "Montana", died after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born and raised in Cape Town, the actress completed her secondary education in Bloemfontein and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Drama and Theatre from the University of the Free State in 2005.
After graduating, she moved back to the Mother City where she briefly worked as a high school drama teacher before fully pursuing her acting career.
Roberts’ talent earned her numerous award nominations, including a nomination for Best Actress at the Venice International Film Festival for her role in The Endless River.
In 2018, she also won a South African Film and Television Award (Safta) for Best Actress for her role in "Krotoa". She was nominated up for Best Actress in a Telenovela in 2020 and 2021 at the ceremony for her role in “Arendsvlei”.
Roberts also performed on stage, including a production of "Romeo and Juliet Unplugged", "Bidsprinkaan" and "Rondomskrik" to list a few.
The award-winning actress was a mother, wife and a daughter. She leaves behind a legacy of unforgettable performances.
Colleagues, friends, and fans have taken to social media to pay tributes to Roberts.
@earlseptember wrote on X: "Your presence and personality gave light and life to a room. Thank you for being that light and holding space. Condolences to Schalk and all the family and friends."
@MaengereFilms added: "Like a comet blazing across the evening sky. Gone too Soon. Rest in Peace Crystal Donna Roberts. My thoughts are with her loved ones and all who she touched through her incredible artistry. It feels so unreal even to write those words."
Meanwhile, "Spinners" star Cantona James took to Instagram to post a picture of Roberts on his Stories with the words: "Rest Well Crystal."
Fellow actress Shimmy Isaacs also posted a video reel which featured her and Roberts. She added the caption: "Rest Gentle My Crystal God has called you home you left us with so much, guidance, friendship, spirituality what a rare and unique soul you were. Rest Gentle chomma so lief vir jou en Schalk. Ons dink aan jou Schalk alle sterkte vir die vriende en familie 💔."
Fellow actress Shimmy Isaacs also posted a video reel which featured her and Roberts. She added the caption: "Rest Gentle My Crystal God has called you home you left us with so much, guidance, friendship, spirituality what a rare and unique soul you were. Rest Gentle chomma so lief vir jou en Schalk. Ons dink aan jou Schalk alle sterkte vir die vriende en familie 💔."
In addition, Penguin Films also expressed their condolences over Roberts' passing.
In a statement, they wrote: "We at Penguin Films are devastated by the passing of Crystal-Donna Roberts. An absolute professional, modest despite her unique and exceptional talent."
They added that her role in "Krotoa" "was monumental and the reason the film gained so much international recognition."
"Her portrayal of Janice in 'Arendsvlei' was loved by all -feisty, sexy, yet deeply emotional. Having worked closely with her over several years, I witnessed her struggle with cancer. Throughout her treatment, she was determined to work her innate strength and commitment were extraordinary and admirable."
"She will be missed by her colleagues and by all the South African viewers who loved her. Her legacy will live on through her body of work."