South Africa is mourning the loss of veteran actress Nandi Nyembe, who passed away at the age of 75 after a long battle with ill health.
The country’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie confirmed her death on Sunday, just days after she celebrated her birthday on August 19.
“It is with profound sorrow that the Nyembe family, together with the National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, announce the passing of one of South Africa’s most treasured icons of the arts, Mam’ Nandi Nyembe,” McKenzie said.
In a family statement, her loved ones described her as the cornerstone of their lives.
“Our hearts are broken as we share the loss of our beloved mother and grandmother,” they said.
Her grandson, Jabulani Nyembe, added: “To the world, she was a gifted actress; to us, she was our everything. Her love, laughter, and strength will stay with us always.”
Tributes have poured in from across the arts community.
Actors Spaces, a leading industry organisation, hailed her as a thespian of note and a true joy to be around.
“The loss of a giant will be felt far beyond what we can see or explain…Nandi Nyembe’s contribution is imprinted in our theatres, sets, and books, a thespian of note and a true joy to be around. We stand in applause for your final curtain call.”
Nyembe’s later years were marked by health and financial struggles.
She was wheelchair-bound and underwent surgery for spinal and knee complications.
In 2023, she publicly appealed for assistance to cover medical bills, admitting it was difficult to seek help after spending over R88,000 (Sh645,000) on treatment for her son.
Despite these challenges, she maintained she was not seeking handouts, saying she was always willing to work.
Born in KwaZulu-Natal, Nyembe was raised by her grandmother, a schoolteacher, and later moved to Soweto where her acting career began at the Market Theatre.
Over the decades, she became a household name, appearing in acclaimed productions such as Yizo Yizo, Soul Buddyz, Isibaya, How to Ruin Christmas, House of Zwide, Isono, Adulting, and The River.
Known for her powerful screen presence and humility off screen, Nyembe leaves behind a legacy that spans theatre, television, and film.
Her passing marks the end of an era in South African storytelling, but her impact will continue to inspire generations of performers.