Heartfelt : Khabonina Qubeka Honors Her Father ‘Papa G

It’s always tough to hear of a beloved figure in the entertainment world passing away, and that feeling is magnified when it’s someone you have shared a close bond with. On Saturday, September 14, actress Khabonina Qubeka took to social media to pay tribute to her late co-star, Darlington Michaels, who played her father on the iconic South African soap opera Isidingo, according to The South African.

Khabonina, who portrayed Nina Zamdela, shared a touching video clip featuring the two of them from their days on the show. In her heartfelt caption, she wrote, “My father… on and off camera fam, kubhlungu (it’s painful) shem!” Anyone who has followed the show knows the powerful chemistry between Khabonina and Darlington, making this tribute all the more poignant.

Darlington Michaels, who was 78, played the lovable and wise Georgie “Papa G” Zamdela, capturing the hearts of viewers across South Africa. His warmth and humor brought depth to his character and provided memorable moments that fans still cherish today. Sadly, he passed away on the night of September 13, at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital in Soweto, after battling an undisclosed illness. Reports mentioned that he was receiving oxygen assistance in his final days, a reminder of how fragile life can be.

My father … on and off camera fam 🤞🏾😭😭😭😭😭😭 kubhlungu 💔 Shem ! https://t.co/BuYpnQQS2z

— KHABONINA™ (@Khabonina_Q) September 14, 2024

In a statement from his family, they expressed their profound sadness: “It is with profound sadness that the Ndarana family confirms the passing of the legendary actor Teboho Ndarana, best known as Darlington Papa G Michaels.” They also assured fans that details of his memorial and funeral would be shared soon, as they take the time to honor his legacy and say their goodbyes.

TVSA reports that the late Isidingo actor Darlington Michaels portrayed a flamboyant gangster starting in 1998. He also played the conman Daliza in Mzansi Magic’s 2012 sitcom Chandies and appeared in Netflix’s How to Ruin Christmas: The Funeral as a Man in the Airplane. Additionally, he starred in The Road as Themba Mashinini Senior, Gazlam as Pipe Man, and Vula Vala as Gab.

As fans and fellow actors look back on Darlington’s impressive career, it’s evident that he left an indelible mark on South Africa’s television landscape. Khabonina’s emotional tribute serves as a reminder of not just the characters we play but the relationships we forge along the way. Rest in peace, Darlington Michaels – your memory and impact will live on in the hearts of many.