GREAT South African Actors You Probably Didn’t Know Have Died

South Africa has produced numerous outstanding acting talents who have left indelible marks on the entertainment industry, both locally and internationally. However, many of these stars passed away at a young age, leaving fans in deep mourning. Below are the stories of 21 South African actors who left us too soon, with some passing away quietly, unnoticed by the public.

1. Christopher Kua

Christopher Kua, known for his role as Gunman in Yoo, had a successful career. However, his personal life was fraught with turmoil. In 2017, he tragically ended his life after discovering that his wife, Cynthia Kumaro, had been unfaithful. He left behind 24 children, including 10 who were only acknowledged after his passing.

2. David Duas

David was a talented actor best known for his role as Mike in Backstage. Although he appeared healthy throughout his life, he suddenly passed away from heart failure in 2021 at the age of 51.

3. Leana Leang

Leana Leang was loved for her role as Kina in Deep City. In 2023, she succumbed to a short illness at the age of 34, leaving behind her grieving family and fans.

4. McDonald Mundra

McDonald, a familiar face in shows like Generations and Home Affairs, passed away in May 2021 after experiencing severe breathing difficulties.

5. O Mangomane

Diagnosed with stage four brain cancer in 2019, Mangomane fought bravely but survived only a year and a half before passing away in 2021 at the age of 37.

6. T Vuma

Known for his roles in Generations and Broken Vows, Vuma passed away during the pandemic due to complications related to COVID-19.

7. Teaser

Teaser lived in poverty before passing away at the age of 39 in Jabulani Hospital in 2015 due to an undisclosed illness.

8. Lindy Way

Lindy Way, the daughter of a renowned playwright, appeared in numerous films, including Scandal and Soul City. She died peacefully in her sleep in January 2021 at the age of 44.

9. Sam Phillips

Sam Phillips, an actor and music composer, appeared in over 22 television productions. He passed away in 2021 at the age of 72 after years of health issues.

10. Thando Mokoena

Thando, who acted in Generations and Rhythm City, was fatally shot in 2023 at the age of 34.

11. Mary Mabaso

Mary, a seasoned actress from Pretoria, passed away in 2017 at the age of 51 after suffering a severe injury from a fall.

 

12. Cuso Manaka

Cuso, known for Backstage and Home Affairs, battled cancer and passed away in 2021 at the age of 37.

13. Patrick Inu

Patrick Inu, a veteran actor, passed away in 2023 from age-related complications after four decades of contribution to the arts.

14. David Petu

David, a long-time cast member of Generations, died of natural causes in 2018 at the age of 85.

15. Manda Makhathini

Manda was tragically killed in 2017 while trying to rescue two women during a robbery. He lost his life at the age of 40.

16. Quana Dlamini

Quana, a rising star with great potential, was fatally stabbed during a robbery in Pretoria in 2019 at just 25 years old.

17. Mo Langa

Mo, a talented actor who began his career at the age of 12, passed away in 2024 in a fatal car accident. He was only 31 years old.

The untimely passing of these talented artists leaves a void in South Africa’s entertainment industry and serves as a poignant reminder of life’s brevity and unpredictability. We should cherish every moment, love, and support one another. As Mo Langa’s final words resonate: