Amanda Manku Opens Up About Losing Her Mother and Grandmother to Tragedy

The ‘Skeem Saam’ actress reveals her pain and emotional journey on the Mommy Diaries Podcast.

Amanda Manku, known for her role as Elizabeth Thobakgale on Skeem Saam, recently shared a heart-wrenching story on the Mommy Diaries Podcast, revealing the tragic loss of her mother and grandmother. In the emotional interview, Manku described how her life drastically changed after the two women, who played central roles in her life, were murdered by her father.

‘I Had the Perfect Parents’

Manku reminisced about her upbringing, saying she had always viewed her parents as perfect. She explained that her father was not only her parent but also her best friend. However, her world was shattered when he was arrested for murdering both her mother and grandmother.

“I had the perfect parents,” she said. “My mom had me when she was 15, so she was like my friend, and my grandmother automatically took the role of being my mother.”

The actress added that her mother and grandmother were the backbone of her life, and she depended on them for emotional support. Their sudden and violent deaths left her devastated.

Dealing with Grief and Loss

Manku admitted that she initially believed she was coping with the loss, but 2024 became the year that forced her to confront the truth about her emotional state.

“At first, I thought I was fine, but 2024 was the year that hit me that they were no more,” Manku shared. “I didn’t deal with it; I died. I think the day that they passed away was the day something inside of me died.”

She confessed that she struggled to understand the nature of their deaths and found herself questioning her faith.

“For the longest time, I was angry with God for the nature in which they departed.”

A Painful Journey to Healing

Despite her pain, Amanda Manku continues to work through her grief. The loss of her mother and grandmother, who were such vital parts of her life, is something she carries with her every day. Their deaths have left a lasting impact, and Manku is candid about how it has shaped her emotional journey.

Her vulnerability in sharing her story has resonated with many, offering a glimpse into the personal struggles behind her public persona. Manku’s courage to speak about such a tragic experience reflects her strength and determination to heal.

In the end, Manku’s story is not only about loss but also about the complex emotions that come with it—anger, grief, and, eventually, the path toward healing.

Conclusion
As Amanda Manku opens up about the tragic events that have shaped her life, she continues to inspire many with her resilience and bravery. Despite the deep pain of losing her mother and grandmother to such a shocking act, Manku remains a shining example of strength, both on and off the screen.