Metro FM news presenter Pearl Shongwe passes on

The SABC’s Metro FM news presenter Pearl Shongwe has passed on. It is understood she died at her Polo Fields home north of Johannesburg. Details are still sketchy at the moment.

The newsreader also presented sport on SABC’s 404 News channel and Morning Live on weekends alongside Simphiwe Ncongwane.

A much-loved face on television, Shongwe was also a finalist in the Miss Soweto pageant in 2011. Business Manager for Metro FM Kina Nhlengethwa says the family has confirmed her passing.

“It is with great sadness that the Shongwe family announces the untimely passing of our beloved daughter Ntombifuthi Pearl Shongwe. She passed away in her sleep,” reads a statement from her family, who asks for privacy to mourn her death during this difficult time.

SABC colleagues remember Pearl Shongwe: 

Fans of the presenter expressed their shock at the 35-year-old’s passing on social media.

So sad to learn about Pearl Shongwe’s passing man! 😢
Life is fragile and fleeting!

What a talent? What a beautiful mind?

May her soul rest in peace!
Condolences to her family, friends, colleagues and supporters! 💕💐 🙏🏾

— Kokeletso.L (@l_keletso) November 8, 2022

You left too soon Pearl Shongwe, your laughter will be missed by me. 😢 Death be not proud. 💐🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️ pic.twitter.com/CDvVU9KQIG

— Mo 👑 #WorkOppsBae 😎 (@moorelyfe1) November 8, 2022

For Metro FM News, On the Touch Down, Good Night… You are Pearl Shongwe 😭❤️🕊️ #RIPPearlShongwe pic.twitter.com/83IWZA6SHu

— Phomelelo Ngoepe (@phumi_iam) November 8, 2022

The rational youth movement is saddened by the passing of Pearl Shongwe who had a beautiful and inspiring voice. We send deepest condolences to the family and colleagues @METROFMSA 💔💔🙏 pic.twitter.com/H4pwDIT7Fp

— Rational Youth Movement (@rational_youth) November 8, 2022

I’m so heartbroken. I loved the way #pearlshongwe read the news. She had such a beautiful laugh & voice. Wow.💔

— Raised in Africa💫 (@paballo_patsa) November 8, 2022