RIP: ‘7de Laan’ creator Danie Odendaal dead

Veteran TV producer and creator of 7de Laan, Danie Odendaal died at 77 on Wednesday, 30 October.

DANIE ODENDAAL: DIES

The 7de Laan creator Danie Odendaal passed away in Langebaan in Western Cape on Wednesday evening at 77 years.

The Citizen reports the renowned writer and producer died after a short illness.

Odendaal’s family confirmed his passing in a statement: “Danie lived a life full of creativity and warmth, quietly shaping the world around him through his storytelling. Known for his humour and wit, he had a way of speaking his mind that inspired those fortunate enough to know him.”

The veteran TV producer and director reportedly suffered a stroke in 2019 while he was living in Pervillac, France. Odendaal’s health deteriorated over the past few months.

The producer, director, and writer also created Saartjie and Dennekruin 12 and also directed Dennekruin 12, Gallery; Die Man met ‘n Lyk om sy Nek, Beelde, Saartjie, Okavango: The Wild Frontier, and the miniseries Veldslag.

The South African will reveal his memorial and funeral details over the next few days.

SOUTH AFRICANS PAY TRIBUTE TO ‘7DE LAAN’ FOUNDER

Islamic_hub_2: “A true legend in South African Television May his soul rest in peace. Condolences to family.”

@zola_hashatsi: “So sad to hear about the passing of multi award winning producer, director and creator and writer Oom Danie Odendaal. Thank you for your contribution to the arts from the days of Egoli: Plek van Goud to creating @real7delaan. Thank you for all our Mimi chats at Sasani.”

@umiyagim: “At least he saw the start and end of his creation.”

@Realeboga_S: “Danie gave us an incredible show. What a legend! May his soul rest in peace.”

@Pamela_powel: ” May his soul rest in peace. 7de Laan was my favourite.”

Director, Henry Mylne, who worked with Odendaal on 7de Laan and Egoli: Place of Gold wrote on Facebook: “RIP my dear friend and colleague Danie Odendaal. A friendship that started at TV1 at the SAUK in the eighties. Both of us as directors.”