Actress Crystal-Donna Roberts has died after a battle with cancer. She died in her sleep early this morning. She had been in the hospital for some time. Roberts was known for her role as Krotoa in 2018, for which she won a SAFTA award for best actress.
She also played the role of Janice Mortlock in Arendsvlei. Roberts also played in series such as Vallei Van Sluiers, Die Boland Moorde, Getroud Met Rugby and Die Byl. She was 40.
Her husband, Schalk Cornelessen shared the sad news on Facebook earlier today.
“My beautiful, loving wife, Crystal, passed away in her sleep early this morning. My heart is broken, but she was at peace when she went. It is heartbreaking, but I know her pain is over and she is now with God, free from pain. Thank you all for your love and support.”
Tributes have started pouring in.
Artscape CEO Marlene Le Roux has conveyed her heartfelt condolences to Roberts’ loved ones on her passing.
“Our hearts may be broken but we will forever celebrate her. She graced our stages and our television and silver screens with her gift…a gift of persistent truth and believability. All who knew Crystal, know that infectious smile – a genuine smile that could light up a room in an instant…a smile that could change a mood from sombre to jolly…a smile that we all knew came straight from her soul…the smile of an angel…this is how we will remember her. This is how she will remain legendary and omnipresent.”
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Crystal-Donna Roberts. Her incredible talent, multiple SAFTA wins, and unforgettable performances left a lasting mark on South African entertainment. Our condolences to her family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Crystal-Donna. 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/yyIaWqZ8Rl
— South African Film & Television Awards #SAFTAs (@SAFTAs_1) March 6, 2025
Roberts shared on the talk show “Tussen Ons” in 2019 that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a double mastectomy. As a result of the treatment, she also lost all her hair.
She discovered she had breast cancer in March of that year, though she had already noticed a lump in her breast in November 2018.
Despite being told by doctors and others that she was too young for breast cancer, she quickly did extensive research and immediately quit smoking after the diagnosis.
Both of her breasts were removed, but three weeks after the surgery, she was informed that small cancer cells had been found in her glands, requiring her to undergo chemotherapy.
