Idols SA runner-up Thami Shobede dies at 31

News about Shobede’s death surfaced on social media on Thursday morning. Local media reported that the musician collapsed while performing onstage at the weekend. He was admitted to Kalafong Hospital in Pretoria where he passed away.

“The entertainment industry has lost yet another incredibly talented musician after the untimely passing of Idols Top 2 finalist, Thami Shobede," the Department of Arts and Culture wrote on Twitter. "At only 31 years, he had captured many with his unique voice. We send our deepest sympathies to his loved ones.”

Idols South Africa also wrote: “We are saddened by the passing of our former Idols SA contestant, Thami Shobede, a very talented musician with lots still to offer to the music industry. Our deepest condolences to his family and friends. He will be greatly missed.”

Gallo Records general manager Robert Cowling was quoted as saying: “Gallo Record Company is extremely saddened and shocked to learn of the sudden passing of one of our artists Simphiwe Thamsanqa Shobede, fondly know as Thami.

"It came to our attention this morning that he was in hospital suffering from an illness and complications. His family went to see him in Atteridgeville hospital [Kalafong Hospital], where he passed away sometime just before noon this morning.”