CAPE TOWN – School communities in Stellenbosch and Somerset West are in mourning following the death of Max Immelman (15), who lost his battle against cancer on 19 June 2026.

The Parel Vallei grade 10 learner, who would have celebrated his 16th birthday on 2 July, was diagnosed with leukaemia last year. Max is the son of South African actress Barbara-Marié Immelman (née Venter) and her husband, Charl Immelman.

Tributes have been pouring in from the schools Max attended.

Parel Vallei says in a post on the school’s Facebook page: “It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to Max Immelman, one of our grade 10 students.

“His time with us has been cut short, but the impact he made will be felt for a very long time. Parel Vallei celebrates you, Max. Thank you for your joy and your fighting spirit. You will be missed by your teachers and your friends.”

Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch, which Max previously attended, wrote on its Facebook page: “The Paul Roos community is deeply saddened by the passing of Max Immelman, following a protracted fight against cancer.

“Max attended PRG in grades 8 and 9 before he moved to Parel Vallei to be closer to home during his treatments. We honour Max for the courageous gentlemanship he demonstrated consistently, even during the toughest times.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, his friends and the PV community who supported him this year.”

Max attended Beaumont Primary School in Somerset West from grades 1 to 7. The school also paid tribute to its former learner: “Max will always be remembered by his Beaumont friends and teachers for his kindness, gentle nature, beautiful manners, and the warmth he brought to those around him.”

Over the past few months, Barbara-Marié posted regular updates on her public Facebook page, with Max bravely appearing in some videos to discuss his diagnosis and treatment.

In March, she shared a short video in which she addresses mothers who are struggling with children who have cancer.

“My son has got leukaemia. He was diagnosed last year and has been through the whole chemotherapy, radiation and bone marrow transplant. In February this year he had a relapse.

“It was heartbreaking and very disturbing. I felt confused and upset and incredibly sad. However, we have been covered in prayer. We have hope. We always will have hope. The Lord has shown incredible miracles from that time throughout this whole journey actually.

“I just want to tell you, mommy, if you’re listening to this and you’re struggling, just keep on praying. There is hope. And just take one day at a time. Don’t think far ahead. Just focus on the day you have been given and love your child endlessly and just be there for them.”

Attempts by NovaNews to make contact with Max’s parents have been unsuccessful so far.