Elvis Director Baz Luhrmann Makes Tribute To Shonka Dukureh Who Died Shockingly

Baz Luhrmann - Shonka Dukureh (Instagram @bazluhrmann)

JAKARTA - The departure of actress Shonka Dukureh shocked the public. Because he appeared as one of the players in the new Elvis film released last month.

Shonka Dukureh, who played Big Mama Thornton, died at her Nashville apartment on Thursday, July 21. one of the children found the mother in a helpless condition.

Then, Dukureh's son called 911 for help. Until now, the autopsy process is still ongoing to determine the cause of Shonka Dukureh's death.

Condolences have been pouring in on social media. One of them came from the director of the film Elvis, Baz Luhrmann.

"Bright light went out today and the entire Elvis film family is heartbroken by the passing of Shonka Dukureh," Baz Luhrmann wrote today, Friday, July 22.

“From the moment she came into our world, Shonka brought joy, energy and sound and music. Wherever he is on stage or in the room, everyone is excited," he said.

Baz Luhrmann said Shonka Dukureh often uses the word blessing and he feels that blessing through the actress' presence.

“Shonka has just found a bigger audience for her incredible talent and I've just seen her excite the Coachella audience. I and the Elvis family feel the blessing of being with him,” said Baz Luhrmann.

"We send love and support to Shonka's family and children in this situation."

Baz Luhrmann also uploaded a portrait of Shonka Dukureh including when he kissed the actress on the forehead.

Shonka Dukureh made her debut as an actress through the film Elvis in which she played Big Mama Thornton. Her beautiful voice is a sample of the Vegas song sung by Doja Cat.

Dukureh briefly appeared at Coachella with Doja Cat to perform the song Vegas, which is the soundtrack for the film Elvis. Shonka Dukureh died at the age of 44.