Cape Town – South African acclaimed movie critic and journalist Barry Ronge has reportedly died in Johannesburg at the age of 74.
He died of old age and natural causes on July 3, according to Channel24.
At the time of his death, he was with his life partner Albertus van Dyk.
The Buz Factor publicist Bridget Van Oerle said that Barry only wanted the news about his death to be announced a week after his passing.
“Albertus is obviously very, very sad. It’s a huge loss. They were together for 45 years. They had an incredible relationship, said Van Oerle, as quoted by the report.
According to SABC, Barry was one of the country’s most widely read columnists. He worked for a number of publications, including the Sunday Times, and The Star.
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From 1987 to 2014, he wrote a Sunday Times column called Spit ‘n Polish, which was published for 27 years.
In 2014 he was honoured with a Special Lifetime Achievement Award by The Sunday Times, for his contribution to South Africa’s cultural life,said the report.
Condolences poured in from friends and fans.
Take a look at some of the condolences below:
Farewell Barry Ronge, thank you for inspiring and entertaining us with your love for film and way with words.
— Spling ? (@MovieCriticSA) July 9, 2022
Now that man was a terrific ten. In as much as you can look forward to an exam, I used to look forward to English papers in high school, because nine times out of ten, the comprehension was a Barry Ronge column. https://t.co/Xy4aZGuksu
— Alphabet Fascist ?️? (@MvelaseP) July 9, 2022
Barry Ronge is on the 30 seconds cards, and my clue always is “he used to write movie reviews in the newspaper!” somehow my friends don’t know him ??
Ai jinne, rest in peace Mr Ronge— Liezl (@li_298) July 9, 2022
Fond memories. RIP Barry, condolences to his family and friends
— Carol (@caroldsp09) July 9, 2022
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Compiled by Sinothando Siyolo
