- Crystal-Donna Roberts died at home in Cape Town after battling stage four breast cancer.
- The award-winning actress was known for roles in popular shows like Arendsvlei and 7de Laan.
Popular TV and film star Crystal-Donna Roberts has died at her Cape Town home after fighting stage four breast cancer.
The actress, known for her roles in Arendsvlei, 7de Laan, and Krotoa, died early on Thursday morning with her family by her side.
Her husband, Schalk Cornelissen, shared the sad news on Facebook: “RIP my beautiful, beautiful loving wife.” The couple married in 2015.
Roberts grew up in Bonteheuwel, Kensington, and Factreton in Cape Town. She studied drama at the University of the Free State and went on to win a SAFTA award for Best Actress in 2018 for her role in Krotoa.
The actress was first diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2019. She fought hard against the disease, sharing her journey with fans on Facebook.
“3 biopsies. 1 double mastectomy. 4 rounds of chemo. 25 rounds of radiation. TREATMENT DONE!!!” Roberts wrote in November 2019.
She spoke openly about her cancer battle in an interview with Stylvol: “To lose my hair was more traumatic than my breasts. My breasts were ‘sick’, and I understand they had to go, but there was nothing wrong with my hair.”
Fellow Arendsvlei actor Jarrid Geduld remembered her warmly: “There’s so much everybody that knew Crystal can tell you about her. What a beautiful friend and colleague. A heart of gold, a master performer, and a true custodian of the coloured culture,” News24 reported.
Film producer Roberta Durrant praised Roberts’ strength: “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.”
Pictured above: Crystal-Donna Roberts.
Image source: Crystal-Donna Roberts Facebook
