Former Isidingo Star Lesego Motsepe Dead At 39

South African actress Lesego Motsepe, best known for her role as Lettie Matabane in the SABC 3 soapie Isidingo, has died. She was just 39. 

Motsepe, who disclosed her HIV status on World Aids Day in 2011, saying she had been living with the virus since 1998, was found dead at her Randburg home at around 11 am on Monday.

She controversially revealed in 2012 that she has decided to stop her use of antiretroviral medication and rely instead on a special diet. 

Her revelation drew a lot of criticism from HIV/Aids activists, who lamented that her statement, given her high profile, could have a negative impact on the usage of the ARVs, which have been promoted, with support from the government, as the best available aid to help infected people manage the disease.  

Family spokesperson Gabi Tabane says the family is saddened by the loss.

“Today, we are really heartbroken to share that Lesego Motsepe passed away. She was found dead this morning at 11 o’clock by her brother Moemise Motsepe,” he says. 

“She was confirmed dead at one o’clock by paramedics who indicated that she died of natural causes.”

Condolences to the Motsepe family.