By Johnathan Paoli
South Africa is mourning the loss of award-winning actress Nandi Nyembe, who has died at the age of 75 after a long illness.
In a joint statement on Saturday night, the Nyembe family and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture confirmed her passing and paid tribute to her life, artistry, and lasting contribution to the nation’s cultural landscape.
Affectionately known as Mam’ Nandi, she was described as “far more than an actress,” embodying the soul of South African storytelling.
“To the world, she was a gifted actress; to us, she was our everything. Her love, laughter, and strength will stay with us always. We are so grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers and support during this time,” her grandson Jabulani Nyembe said.
Through her decades-long career on stage and screen, Nyembe became a household name — revered not only for her artistic talent but also for the dignity, truth, and compassion she brought to every performance.
“Through her life and work, she gave our people pride and our stories purpose. She carried our struggles, our laughter, and our victories with truth, dignity, and heart,” the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture said in a statement.
Nyembe was born in 1950 in Kliptown, Johannesburg, and rose to prominence during a time when opportunities for Black actors were severely limited under apartheid.
Against this backdrop, she carved out a career that not only showcased her brilliance but also opened doors for countless others.
Her acting credits spanned theatre, television, and film, with iconic roles in productions such as Yizo Yizo, Zone 14, Isibaya, and Soul City. She became known for her commanding presence and ability to portray complex characters with honesty and humanity.
Beyond her craft, Nyembe was a mentor to emerging artists, often travelling to rural villages and township communities to encourage young performers to pursue their dreams despite daunting circumstances.
For the Nyembe family, her passing is both a personal and national loss. They expressed gratitude to South Africans for embracing Mam’ Nandi as one of their own, recognising the special bond she shared with audiences across generations.
The department extended condolences to her family, acknowledging the magnitude of the loss not only to the arts community but to the nation as a whole.
Paying tribute, arts and culture Minister Gayton McKenzie described her legacy as “eternal,” adding that while her voice may now be silent, her impact will continue to resonate through her work and the generations she inspired.
“You shared a legend with us. Her loss is not yours alone but a loss we all feel. South Africa bows its head in sorrow but also lifts its eyes in honour of the life she lived so powerfully,” McKenzie said.
Gauteng education, sport, arts, culture and recreation MEC Matome Chiloane has also extended his department’s heartfelt condolences.
“She gave dignity to the stories of our people and carried them with authenticity and grace. That humility and strength deeply touched the nation, reminding us of the resilience of our artists and the importance of celebrating their contributions while they are still with us. Mme Nandi’s name will forever stand among the greats who shaped South African storytelling,” Chiloane said.
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