Good Hope FM Presenter Lorenzo Darries Dies After Stroke, Heart Disease Battle

Key facts

• Lorenzo Darries died in hospital on Tuesday morning after suffering a stroke on Monday.
• He had been battling heart disease, specifically cardiomyopathy, a hereditary condition.
• His heart was functioning at only 10 to 15 percent capacity in recent months.
• He was on a transplant list awaiting a life-saving procedure.
• Darries began his Good Hope FM career in February 2020 after entering the station's Campus DJ Search in 2019.
• He hosted shows including Weekend Sports WarmUp, Play-By-Play, and The Great Drive with Kyeezi and Celest Anthony.
• He grew up in Lavender Hill, Mitchells Plain, and Retreat on the Cape Flats.
• He completed an Accounting Programme at CPUT in 2019.

A Voice Silenced: Broadcaster Dies After Stroke

Lorenzo Darries, the beloved Good Hope FM presenter who had been living with heart disease, died in hospital on Tuesday morning after suffering a stroke the night before. The station confirmed his passing in a statement, describing him as a vibrant broadcaster and a beautiful human being. Darries had been open about his health struggles, sharing his journey with honesty and courage. In recent months, his condition had deteriorated significantly: his heart was functioning at only 10 to 15 percent capacity, and he had been placed on a transplant list.

A Courageous Battle with Cardiomyopathy

Darries had been living with cardiomyopathy, a hereditary heart condition that had already affected several members of his family. Despite the severity of his illness, he used his platform to raise awareness and support others facing similar challenges. he suffered a stroke on Monday night before passing away in hospital on Tuesday morning. The station expressed deep sadness, noting that he had left them following a courageous battle with heart disease.

From Cape Flats to Airwaves: A Career Forged in Radio

Hailing from the Cape Flats, Darries grew up in Lavender Hill, Mitchells Plain, and Retreat. In 2019, while completing an Accounting Programme at CPUT, he found his way to campus radio and entered the Good Hope FM Campus DJ Search. Although he did not make it to the final stages, his impression was so strong that Good Hope FM called him the very next year. His career at the station began in February 2020, and he quickly became a trusted presenter on shows like Weekend Sports WarmUp, Play-By-Play, and most recently The Great Drive with Kyeezi and Celest Anthony.

Tributes and Legacy: 'A True Cape Town Original'

Tributes have poured in from colleagues and listeners across Cape Town. Masi Mdingane, business manager for Good Hope FM and 5FM, said: 'It's impossible to overstate the impression that Lorenzo left on the hearts and lives of those who had the privilege of meeting and knowing him. As Cape Town's original, Good Hope FM honours his legacy with deep respect and immense gratitude.' The station added: 'He gave his talent, his time and his being to this station and to the city he loved. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and the listeners who welcomed him into their lives. His voice, his spirit and his impact will remain part of Good Hope FM forever.'

A Colleague Remembered: 'He Lit Up Every Room'

Colleagues fondly remember Darries as someone who lit up every room, worked with passion, supported others without hesitation, and always found a way to make people laugh. The station noted that his passing leaves a profound silence in their corridors and in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of working with him. Darries was more than a presenter to many listeners; his warm presence on air and strong connection with the Western Cape community made him a familiar companion. He used his platform not only to entertain but also to connect, becoming a part of daily life for thousands.

A Community Mourns: Cape Town Loses a Beloved Voice

Cape Town is mourning the loss of a broadcaster who was a true Cape Town original with a particular love for all things sport. His authenticity and heart resonated with listeners who connected instantly with his style. The station's statement concluded: 'His voice, his spirit and his impact will remain part of Good Hope FM forever.' As the city grieves, Darries' legacy as a courageous advocate for heart health and a vibrant radio personality endures.

The bottom line

• Lorenzo Darries, Good Hope FM presenter, died after a stroke on Monday and passed away in hospital Tuesday morning.
• He had been battling cardiomyopathy, a hereditary heart condition, with his heart functioning at 10-15% capacity.
• He was on a transplant list awaiting a life-saving procedure.
• Darries started his radio career at Good Hope FM in February 2020 after impressing in the station's Campus DJ Search.
• He hosted several shows including Weekend Sports WarmUp, Play-By-Play, and The Great Drive.
• Tributes from the station and colleagues highlight his warmth, passion, and impact on the Cape Town community.