Legendary Actress Nandi Nyembe Passes Away at 75

“To the world, she was a gifted actress; to us, she was our everything,” the family of legendary actress Nandi Nyembe shared after her passing.

Nyembe who was widely admired for her performances on stage and screens passed away on August 23 at the age of 75.

Nyembe’s grandson Jabulani added: “Our hearts are broken as we share the loss of our beloved mother and grandmother, Nandi Nyembe. 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.”

“To the people of South Africa: thank you for embracing Mam’ Nandi as your own.”

With a career spanning over 53 years in the entertainment industry, Nyembe is best known for her role as Nandi Sibiya in Zone 14. She also portrayed Lily in SABC 1’s acclaimed teen drama Yizo Yizo and played the leading role in the sitcom Izoso Connexion. Her film credits include Reasonable Man, Saturday Night at the Palace, and the Oscar-nominated Yesterday.

Nyembe has also appeared in a number of popular series and telenovelas, including Soul City, Gaz’lam, The Road, The Queen, and Isibaya.

Earlier this year, she revealed that she had been facing financial difficulties after using her savings to cover her son’s medical expenses—bringing attention to the lack of pension support and royalty payments in the local entertainment industry. Despite declining health, she expressed a strong desire to continue working rather than rely on handouts.

@ndabat #NDABANEWS: Veteran South African actress Nandi Nyembe, renowned for her compelling roles in #Zone14, #YizoYizo, and #SoulCity ♬ original sound – NDABANEWS

Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzi expressed that Nyembe 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.”

“Mam’ Nandi gave us everything. She was the voice that said: “You too can rise.”

“To the Nyembe Family, the Department expresses deepest condolences and gratitude. 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 added.

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