Various messages of condolences are pouring in for veteran Generations actor, Menzi Ngubane, after he suffered a stroke at the age of 56 on Saturday, 13 March 2021.
MENZI NGUBANE’S MOST ICONIC ROLES
To celebrate his life and memory, various social media users shared clips of Ngubane acting in some of his most iconic roles. One of these roles includes the actor’s portrayal of Generations villain Sibusiso Dlomo who graced South African screens for more than a decade and won him a place in a generation of South African’s hearts.
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Meanwhile, it is reported that Ngubane invented the phrase “Pha woo” while portraying Mazwi in Ubambo Lwami – a show that was based on a love triangle between David, Bheka and Thoko’s gangster brother, Mazwi.
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Later, in 2001 Ngubane appeared on the controversial and internationally recognised TV drama, Yizo Yizo.
But, it wasn’t until he played Jerome on Gazlam when he became one of television’s most notable villainous characters.
Although, according to ZAlebs, his longest, villainous role on TV was perhaps on Isibaya where he played Judas Ngwenya for four seasons.
“Judas was a ruthless, heartless taxi boss who killed whoever got in his way. He’s the one that ended Thandeka Zungu’s life, played by the legendary Nomzamo Mbatha. The war between the Ngwenyas and Zungus blew up when Juda’s daughter fell in love with Jabulani Zungu. Judas wanted nothing to do with the Zungu’s but his daughter was adamant they make peace. In the end, his own son killed him because Judas killed his daughter-in-law.”
HIS MEMORY LIVES ON
The actor, who is survived by his wife Sikelelwa and two daughters, spoke to East Coast Radio in 2018 about his battle with kidney failure, which left him on the list waiting for a kidney transplant.
“As a family, we wish to thank everyone for their continued and sustained support and the prayers for our beloved son, whose battle with kidney failure & sugar diabetes had become an open secret over the years,” family spokesperson Naomi Mokhele said after the news of his death went viral.
REMEMBERING A ‘BRILLIANT ARTIST’
Thokozani Nala said Ngubane was “arguably the best male actor of his generation”, while Miss Lelo tweeted:
“Menzi Ngubane, what a legendary actor. Siyabulela bhuti for sharing your talent with us. The character, Mazwi was my first introduction to him, iconic!”
Mmusi Maimane also tweeted his condolences:
“South Africa has truly lost an amazing acting talent. This is truly heartbreaking. My deepest condolences to the Ngubane family and all of friends and industry colleagues. May the soul of #MenziNgubane Rest In Peace.”