Veteran actress Nandi Nyembe has passed away.
The news of her passing was confirmed by a joint statement by her family and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture on Saturday evening.
The 75-year-old Nyembe recently revealed that she was experiencing several health complications and struggling financially.
“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.
Mam’ Nandi was far more than an actress, she was the very soul of South African storytelling.
A teacher, a guide, and a mother to this nation, she carried our struggles, our laughter, and our victories through every performance with truth, dignity, and heart.
Through her life and work, she gave our people pride and our stories, a purpose,” read the joint statement.
The statement highlighted that in her acting career, she broke barriers, inspired young actors in villages and townships to dream beyond their circumstances.
Mam’ Nandi, as she was affectionally known, featured in many TV series and was known by many in her roles in the Adulting, Zone 14, Ashes to Ashes and Soul City series, among others.
She was also nominated for the Golden Horn Award for Best Supporting Actress in a TV Drama series.
“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.
