Media personality Lumko “Johnson” Leqela has passed away. The TV presenter passed away on Wednesday. The cause of death is yet to be announced.
Leqela first entered the public realm as a teenager on the popular SABC1 YoTV platform and then went on to nurture a career in television broadcast, radio and production.
In a statement, the family has described Leqela’s passing as a gut-wrenching loss to the family, their loved ones, the LGBTQIA+ community and ultimately to the South African broadcast community.
They say they lived a life filled with purpose and authenticity. Details on the memorial and funeral will be shared by the family in due course.
The family has also asked that the public respect their privacy as they deal with this difficult loss.
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People on Twitter react to Leqela’s passing
I cherish the time we were given with Lumko… Lumko was a bright light, a voice needed & such a great human being… #RIPLumkoJohnson
— Atandwa Kani (@AtandwaKani) September 14, 2022
Powerful, Fierce, Authentic, Proud, Loud, Funny.
It still doesn’t make any sense 😭#RIPLumkoJohnson pic.twitter.com/OOTHe9v6YU
— Kingfab👑 (@kingfabNatee) September 14, 2022
You played a huge role in my career as a growing artist.
You gave me chance, believed in me and my talent. I’ll work hard to make you proud.
Rest Well Lumko Johnson ❤️ #RIPLumkoJohnson pic.twitter.com/NXaflQLW4F
— Tiisetso Masike (@tiisetso_real) September 14, 2022
Rise in Power rainbow child💔 #RipLumkoJohnson 🌈 🌈 pic.twitter.com/AJ8KHfi54s
— PennyLebyane💚PennyLebyaneDotAfrica (@PennyLebyane) September 14, 2022
This is really heartbreaking 💔😞#RIPLumkoJohnson pic.twitter.com/Dxh8uZhuqP
— Lasizwe (@lasizwe) September 14, 2022
LUMKO JOHNSON 👑🎬💔🕊️
YOTV days were awesome, but my highlight was when he played MJ on Mzansi Magic’s Inkaba alongside Dr John Kani, Dumisani Mbebe, Nompilo Gwala & Weza Solange. A proud fearless king🌈 Rest In Peace Leqela💔 #RIPLumkoJohnson pic.twitter.com/EZAAeLjSaT— Bekithemba Zulu 🇿🇦 (@BekithembaZ) September 14, 2022
Oh, let’s not forget the impact they had on this media landscape.
@Yfm is the most queer friendly station on the continent.
That is @LumkoJohnsonLast time I saw them I said this.
I’ll never forget that proud, almost shy smile.Ngeke 😭💔
— Bev (@bevditsie) September 14, 2022
