Tributes have poured in for an award-winning actress who has died of cancer aged 41.
Crystal-Donna Roberts had endured a long illness battle and had been in hospital for some time.
She had breast cancer which spread.
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The married South African star – who had children – passed away peacefully in her sleep.
Her husband Schalk Cornelessen said today (6 Mar): “RIP my beautiful, 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.”
Born and raised in Cape Town, Roberts was best known for her roles in films such as ‘The Endless River’ and ‘Krotoa’, and TV shows such as ‘Montana’.
She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Drama and Theatre from the University of the Free State in 2005.
She briefly worked as a drama teacher before launching her successful acting career.
Roberts won a South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) for Best Actress in 2018 for her role in ‘Krotoa’.
She was nominated for SAFTA Best Actress in a Telenovela award for ‘Arendsvlei’ in 2020 and 2021.
She was also nominated for Best Actress at the Venice International Film Festival for her part in ‘The Endless River’.
Additionally, Roberts performed in theatre productions such as ‘Romeo and Juliet Unplugged’, ‘Rondomskrik’ and ‘Bidsprinkaan’ among many others.
A spokesperson for Maengere Films said: “Like a comet blazing across the evening sky, gone too soon.
“Rest in peace Crystal Donna Roberts. My thoughts are with her loved ones and all who she touched through her incredible artistry.
“It feels so unreal even to write those words.”
Penguin Films said in a statement: “We are devastated by the passing of Crystal-Donna Roberts.
“An absolute professional, modest despite her unique and exceptional talent.
“Her portrayal of Janice in ‘Arendsvlei’ was loved by all -feisty, sexy, yet deeply emotional.
“Having worked closely with her over several years, I witnessed her struggle with cancer.
“Throughout her treatment, she was determined to work.
“Her innate strength and commitment were extraordinary and admirable.
“Her legacy will live on through her body of work.”
Actress Shimmy Isaacs said: “God has called you home, you left us with so much, guidance, friendship, spirituality what a rare and unique soul you were.”
In an interview in 2019, Roberts said she had been diagnosed with breast cancer and had undergone a double mastectomy.
She also lost her hair as a result of the treatment.
She said she first noticed a lump in her breast in November 2018 and was diagnosed in March the following year, as reported by Need To Know.
The actress immediately quit smoking and had both her breasts removed, but cancer cells were discovered three weeks after the operation.
She then started a course of chemotherapy, before finally succumbing to cancer earlier this morning.
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