Stella January Biography | Background, Career, Cancer Diagnosis, Death

Stella January Biography | Background, Career, Cancer Diagnosis, Death

This is the biography of Stella January a highly regarded actor in Zimbabwe’s film industry, known for her memorable performances in popular films such as “Yellow Card,” “Mombe Dzemashanga,” and “Gringo the Trouble Maker,” among others.

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Background

Stellah January was born on 25 February 1969. She lost her child aged 25 in 2010.

Career

Stella January’s acting career took off with her notable role in the critically acclaimed movie “Yellow Card.” She also showcased her talent in television drama series like “Dzamombe Dzemashanga” and “Murambiwa.” In addition, she made appearances in various short films, including “The Team,” “Nyaminyami,” “Masimba, Pfuma,” “Gringo the Trouble Maker,” and “Dust and Fortune.” Stella January’s film credits extend to works such as “Munom­bodei,” “Kusika Moto,” “Status,” “23 Musasa Avenue,” “The Ring,” “Vhunze,” and “Fools Day.”

One of her recent projects was the production “Tangled” by Rain Media, which aired on 3KTV via DStv. Stella January also collaborated with First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa on an educational film titled “Rujeko.”

January was featured in Joe Njagu’s award-winning production, “Mirage,” alongside Prudence Katomeni-Mbofana, Eunice Tava, Charmaine Mujeri, and Chipo Bizure. The movie received a nomination for the Africa Movie Academy Award in 2022.

Beyond her on-screen achievements, Stella January had a strong commitment to nurturing talent and established the Mufakose Film Society. She also served as the chairperson of Women Filmmakers of Zimbabwe (WFOZ) at one point.

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Stella January Cause of Death

On March 27, 2024, Stella January passed away after battling cancer. She had been in and out of the hospital and had undergone several operations before being diagnosed with cervical cancer. President Emmerson Mnangagwa granted January a State-assisted funeral, and she was laid to rest on March 30, 2024, at Glen Forest Cemetery in Harare.