Iconic actress and stage artist Sharleen Surtie-Richards has died.

THE sparkling Shaleen Surtie-Richards (66), or Nenna as she was popularly christened, is no longer with us.

The country is in mourning after the news broke Monday morning that the iconic actress with the flamboyant personality had died in her home.

Dr. Danie van Wyk, a longtime friend of Sharleen’s, is among those who confirmed the news on social media.

“Who will ever be able to forget her sparkling personality and love for life? I met her in person in 1980 and we have remained friends through the years.

“She was also our program director during our debutantes when I was attached to Ravensmead Senior Secondary School at the time. A talented person who never forgot her origin.

“Rest softly friend. You have enriched our lives in many ways. Until we meet again one day, ”writes Van Wyk.

The cause of the beloved actress’ death is not yet known, but she explained in an interview with Hannes van Wyk van Kwêla in 2019 that she is diabetic.

In the interview, the award-winning actress jokingly said in her unique way that it was still going to be the cause of her death.

She said she had a mini-stroke while delivering another speech at an event. She then ended up in the intensive care unit.

“I always have sugar, I will probably die of sugar one day,” the actress said in her straightforward way.

We will always remember Sharleen for the dynamic roles she played in productions such as Fiela’s Child, Knysna, Two Degrees of Murder and Vaseline.