The Heartbreaking Death Of The Real Housewives Of Johannesburg Star Naledi Willers
By Ashley Moor/Dec. 8, 2021 1:58 pm EST
Naledi Willers, the star of the first season of "The Real Housewives of Johannesburg," has died after being diagnosed with stage 2 triple-negative breast cancer in 2019. While her cause of death was not revealed, many have assumed that she succumbed to the disease, given that she was only 30 years old at the time of her death on Tuesday, December 7, 2021.
"The Willers & Friends are sad to announce the passing of their darling, daughter, friend and sister on Tuesday, 7th December 2021," the announcement of Willers' death read, according to the Daily Mail. "Details about the service and funeral arrangements will be communicated in due time. We appreciate all the kind thoughts and prayers as we continue to struggle to process this tragic loss."
A spinoff of Bravo TV's "The Real Housewives" franchise, "The Real Housewives of Johannesburg" ran for two seasons beginning in 2018, and followed prominent women in Johannesburg, South Africa, per Apple TV. Prior to appearing on the first season of the show, Willers was crowned Miss Botswana second princess in 2009. According to Mmegi Online, Willers also obtained an undergraduate law degree and was qualified as an international professional chef.
Willers previously opened up about her breast cancer journey
Back in October 2020, "The Real Housewives of Johannesburg" star Naledi Willers opened up about her breast cancer diagnosis in an Instagram post. "If I look like I've just been through a war, it's because I have," Willers captioned a photo of herself on Instagram. "On 29 Nov. 2019 I was diagnosed with stage 2 triple negative breast cancer. This was also the day I wrote the last exam of my law degree... while waiting for the call bearing my results. I spent the past short while posting pictures taken around this time last year so I can show what a difference a year makes... and also to say that through all those changes, I'm still here. Still fighting? Does the fight for survival ever end? I choose to say: still healing. Still improving. Every day I draw another breath... still WINNING."
Tributes have already begun pouring in for "The Real Housewives of Johannesburg" star. "My sincere condolences to her family and friends," fellow "Housewives" star Christall Kay told Sunday World. "I remember her as a bold beauty that never shied away from a challenge." Johannesburg entrepreneur Ndo Maleho also posted a tribute on Instagram. "Mma and Humile did the best in keeping you comfortable and providing the best possible care," Maleho wrote in an Instagram post. "The pain is now over. You are now at peace. I am heartbroken but may God give Mama strength. Rest in peace my friend. Till we meet again. I love you!"