A 28-year-old rapper has died after reportedly collapsing whereas acting on stage in South Africa.
Tributes have been paid to Costa Titch, whose actual identify was Constantinos Tsobanoglou.
Footage on social media confirmed him showing to stumble and fall to the bottom throughout his set earlier than being helped to his toes.
The South African star continued to carry out and completed his observe just a few seconds later earlier than falling for a second time.
The incident reportedly occurred in entrance of followers on the Extremely Music Pageant on the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg on Saturday. He died later in hospital.
In an Instagram submit, his household confirmed his demise and thanked followers for his or her help.
“Demise has tragically knocked at our door. Robbing us of our beloved son, brother and grandson, Constantinos Tsobanoglou (28), who South Africa had come to like and idolise below his stage identify “Costa Titch”, they stated.
“It’s with deep ache that we discover ourselves having to acknowledge his passing at the moment.”
The household added: “We’re grateful for the emergency responders and all these current in his final hours on this earth.
“As a household we’re confronted with a tough time as we attempt to make sense of what has befallen us and ask that we be afforded the time and area to collect ourselves.
“The Tsobanoglou household thanks you for the love and help you have got given to our son and will you proceed to uplift him even in spirit.”
UK digital music group Clear Bandit left a damaged coronary heart emoji on the submit, whereas Strictly Come Dancing star Oti Mabuse wrote “Relaxation in peace” with a tearful emoji.
The Southern African Music Rights Organisation wrote on Twitter: “SAMRO is saddened by the passing of widespread rapper Costa Tsobanoglou, higher referred to as Costa Titch.
“Heartfelt condolences to his household, pals and broader music trade.”
Costa Titch, whose songs embrace Large Flexa and Activate, began his profession as a backing dancer earlier than making the transition to a rapper.
In February, he introduced on Instagram that he had partnered with fellow rapper Akon’s document label Konvict Kulture.
In the identical month, one other South African rapper referred to as AKA, whose actual identify was Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, was shot lifeless in Durban. He was 35.