Shona Ferguson Passes Away at 47

Award-winning Botswana actor and producer Shona Ferguson – born Aaron Arthur Ferguson – has sadly passed away at the age of 47.

The dual Botswana / South African citizen had apparently been admitted to hospital in Johannesburg over a week ago, suffering Covid-19 complications. He reportedly underwent heart surgery at Milpark Private Hospital, and was fighting for his life in ICU, according to an IOL report on Tuesday.

His well known actress wife, Connie Ferguson, whom he married in 2001, had not yet released a statement at the time of publishing. Yesterday she had posted a quote from the Bible, from Psalm 27. And just two days ago she posted a tribute to her late brother on what would’ve been his birthday.

Connie and Shona Ferguson co-owned Ferguson Films – which they started in 2010 – and this month announced they were launching a film school to educate and inspire upcoming film enthusiasts. Shona tweeted: “The Ferguson Film School will be the bridge between aspiring film players and the opportunity to making those dreams a reality through equipping, educating and creating networks.”

After an afternoon of rumours on Twitter today, the sad news was confirmed to News24 by Ferguson Foundation representative Conrad Mwanza. He told the media outlet that Shona died from Covid-19 related complications. He confirmed:

“Yes, Mr Ferguson passed away at noon today. And all the family is asking for at the moment is just to mourn in private. But it’s very difficult, you can imagine, for Connie and the family.”

Power couple Connie and Shona Ferguson created The Queen telenovela, which became a South African phenomenon. Streaming on Showmax, the Mzansi Magic show features a stellar cast including the couple.

Shona was also known to South African viewers for his roles in Generations, Muvhango, The Wild, Isidingo: The Need, Scandal!, Kings of Joburg (on Netflix) and Rockville (in which he also co-starred with Connie).