The South African entertainment industry is in shock at the news of the passing of the formidable agent and casting director Moonyeenn Lee. In a post shared on Facebook Moonyeenn Lee Associates announced that Lee died on Saturday of complications caused by the coronavirus.
The opening paragraph read: "It is with great sadness that we announce the death of the legendary South African agent and casting director, Moonyeenn Lee. She passed away on Saturday morning, 18th of July 2020 in Johannesburg. Her death was due to complications caused by the coronavirus." It then went on to pay tribute to Lee and her distinguished career.
Lee's 47 years in the film industry earned her a formidable reputation, she was known for telling it like it is, her brutal honesty was an attitude that shaped many a career in South Africa.
Lee was passionate about her work and those she worked with became like family to her.
She was responsible for the casting of films such as The Bang Bang Club, Disgrace, the Oscar-winning Tsotsi, and the Oscar-nominated Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom. She was also nominated for two Emmy Awards for The Looming Tower and Roots.
A highlight in her prolific career was when she became the first South African member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the body that manages the Oscars.
Tributes have been pouring in on social media for Lee.
The celebrated New Brighton born actor John Kani wrote: "My agent, my friend, my sister passed away last night. RIP Moonyeenn Lee. I truly have no words to express grief. Thank you for everything. Elder."
My agent, my friend, my sister passed away last night. RIP Moonyeenn Lee. I truly have no words to express grief. Thank you for everything. Elder
— JohnKani (@JohnKani2) July 19, 2020
She leaves her daughter, Cindy Lee, her son, David Lee and her beloved pets, Hitchcock, Eva and Spice.
May you RIP Moonyeenn Lee.
