Nandi Nyembe’s death sparks outrage over neglect of veteran actors
Legendary actress Nandi Nyembe passed away on Saturday without allegedly receiving any of the promised help.
The actress was known for her roles in Yizo Yizo, Zone 14, and more recently Adulting on Showmax.
Earlier this year, the veteran star opened up about her financial struggles in a viral video, revealing that she had spent R88 000 of her savings on her son’s medical bills.
The emotional disclosure sparked an outpouring of support, leading to a fundraising event at Disoufeng in Soweto on April 28.
However, despite the goodwill, Nyembe never received the proceeds.
According to her daughter, Thami, the R6 000 raised and the promised essentials, including a heater for winter, never made it to her mother.
“She never received the funds or the items before her passing; I was busy with work when they were supposed to do the drop-off,” Thami said, expressing the family’s disappointment.
Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie was among those who pledged support, promising R20 000 of his own money during a widely shared video call and assuring that he would personally visit Nyembe within two weeks.
While the money was reportedly sent, the minister never fulfilled his promise to visit her.
Instead, he only arrived at the family home the day after her passing.
Nyembe’s death has reignited criticism over how South Africa treats its veteran performers, many of whom face financial hardship despite decades of contribution to the arts.
For over 40 years, she brought to life characters that reflected the humour, resilience, and struggles of ordinary South Africans, cementing her place as one of the country’s most respected talents.
Her passing is not only a painful loss but also a stark reminder of the neglect that many ageing artists endure.
As tributes pour in from across the nation, fans and colleagues are calling for lasting change to ensure that cultural icons like Nyembe are remembered with dignity and supported while alive.
