Nandi Nyembe, Celebrated Actress and Cultural Figure, Passes Away at 75
The South African entertainment industry mourns the loss of veteran actress Nandi Nyembe, who passed away at the age of 75, just days after her birthday. The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, confirmed her passing, noting that the cause of death was complications from a long-term illness, not old age as many might assume, given her recent health struggles.
“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.
The Nyembe family expressed their grief in a heartfelt statement: “Our hearts are broken as we share the loss of our beloved mother and grandmother, Nandi Nyembe. 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,” said her grandson, Jabulani Nyembe.
Film organization Actors Spaces described her death as a profound loss: “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. Your impact lives always.”
Struggles with Poor Health and Finances
Nyembe had been battling poor health for some time, which left her wheelchair-bound. She faced significant challenges with her spinal cord and had undergone surgery on her right knee while awaiting surgery on her left. Her health issues were compounded by financial difficulties, having spent over R88,000 on medical treatment for her son.
Last year, she made a public plea for donations to cover her medical bills, emphasizing her reluctance to seek handouts: “I now know how it feels to beg people for money. But I’m not that kind of person. I can’t have people feeling pity for me because I believe I can do things myself. I don’t believe I need handouts.”
Despite her willingness to continue working, Nyembe also revealed that she did not receive any relief funds during the COVID-19 pandemic, adding to her financial strain. Her passing, due to complications from her ongoing illness, serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by many veteran artists in the industry, sparking renewed conversations about the need for better support systems.