Here are some of the famous South African talents who passed away between 2021 and 2022.
We cannot deny the fact that as much as we have had good times in the entertainment scene, we have also had sad times. Many times, sudden news of death has swept across the country like a chilling howl in the night. Helplessly, both fans and celebrities have tried their best to understand the news and move on in the best ways that they can.
Last year, several deaths rocked Mzansi and we could not hold back our tears. Fans waved farewell to their favourite celebrities, and colleagues shared tributes in their honour promising never to forget how much they inspired them. Sadly, it has remained the same this year. Here is a list of some of the famous talents that Mzansi has lost from last year into this year.
1. Mpura
On August 9, 2021, nears broke that Amapiano Disc Jockey and producer, Mpura had died. It was a month before his 26th birthday. Mpura died in a fatal car accident near Rustenburg, North West, South Africa while on his way to a performance. The accident also claimed other lives including that of his friend and colleague, Killer Kau.
Mpura was one of the most talked-about names in Amapiano at the time. He was known for his work with Lady Du, Mr. JazziQ, Reece Madlisa, Zuma, and more. He has a list of hits under his belt including “Umsebenzi Wethu”, “Ulazi”, and more.
2. Killer Kau
Born, Sakhile Hlatshwayo but famously known as Killer Kau, the late Piano star died the same day as DJ, Mpura. They had both been involved in a fatal car crash near Rustenburg, North West, South Africa on August 9 while on their way to a gig.
They, alongside a few others, died on the spot. Killer Kau was known to have begun his career in 2016 while he was still in school. He rose to fame after posting the video singing his song “Tholukuthi Hey” and catching Themba’s eye. He dropped the jams “Kataliya”, “Lebanta”, “Corona”, and amassed a good following.
3. Patrick Shai
Patrick Molefe Shai was best known as a popular South African actor and director. He gained fame for his work in the following television series and shows; Soul City, Generations, Zone 14, Ashes to Ashes, and Zero Tolerance. He is regarded as a veteran in the South African film industry.
Sadly, Patrick Shai passed earlier this year, on the 22nd of January in Dobsonville, Soweto, South Africa. Reports stated that he had committed suicide as a result of suffering from severe depression. He is survived by his wife, Mmasechaba Shai, and their two beautiful children. He was aged 65 when he died.
4. Shona Ferguson
Aaron Arthur Ferguson best known as Shona Ferguson was a Bostwana actor, and producer who was based in South Africa. He was married to the beautiful Connie Ferguson and was the co-founder of Ferguson Films known for producing major TV series in the country.
On July 30, 2021, news broke that Shona died at the Netcare Milpark Hospital, in Johannesburg, South Africa following Covid complications. Reports stated that he was admitted to Pinehaven Hospital with Covid, and was airlifted to Netcare when his condition got worse. He was aged 47 when he died. Shona’s productions include the TV shows, The Gift, The Throne, The Queen, The River, and more.
5. Kuli Roberts
Nomakula Kuli Roberts best known as Kuli Roberts was popular for a lot of things. She was known to be a fashion and beauty tabloid journalist, a television presenter, an author, and also an actress. But Kuli was best known for her beautiful heart and lovely personality.
Sadly, news broke on February 9, 2022, that she had passed at the age of 49. She left behind two children who she had with her ex-husband, Berwyn ‘Bez’ Roberts. The cause of death is still unknown as friends say she was fine when they saw her. Following her death, videos of how she wanted people to treat each other flooded the net.
6. DJ Citi Lyts
February 14 may be celebrated as Valentine’s Day, but it will always be remembered as the day DJ Citi Lyts died. A statement by his family reveals that he was ambushed and fatally shot in Dube, Soweto.
The 32-year-old brother of the late SA Hip Hop star, Prokid was found lifeless by the police after the shooting. Paramedics certified him dead. DJ Citi Lyts made a name for himself with the hits “Vura”, “Washa”, and “Malambane”. He is also known for his work with several artists including Emtee, Sjava, and Fifi Cooper.
And the list continues….
- Menzi Ngubane
- Ben Kruger
- Lindiwe Ndlovu
- Noxolo ‘Noxee’ Maqashalala
- Luzuko Nteleko
- Shaleen Surtie-Richards
- Nokuzola Mlengana
- Lieb Bester
- Sam Philips
- Jonas Gwangwa
- Tsepo Tshola
- Wandi Nzimande
- Themsie Times
- Mutodi Neshehe
- MacDonald Mathunjwa
- Sipokazi “SK” Nxumalo
- Steve Kekana
- kabelo Molopyane
- Sindi van Zyl
- Lesego Semenya
- Naledi Willers
