South African acting legend Dr John Kani has been awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE). The prestigious honour was formally presented by Antony Phillipson, the British High Commissioner to South Africa, recognising Dr Kani’s extraordinary influence and dedication to drama and theatre.
According to The Citizen, while announcing Dr.Kani as an OBE recipient last year, Antony praised the actor’s remarkable career. He highlighted Dr Kani’s nearly 60 years as a renowned actor, author, director and playwright, noting his roles in Black Panther and Kunene and the King and commended his global impact and inspiration through his performances on both stage and screen.
“For almost 60 years, he has been one of South Africa’s most renowned actors, authors, directors and playwrights. From playing T’Chaka in Black Panther to his wonderful Kunene and the King, which I was privileged to see him perform a few months ago in Pretoria, he has performed around the world – on stage and on screen – inspiring and empowering millions through his accomplishments.”
The publication further stated that people gathered at the residence of the British High Commissioner in Tshwane for the formal handover of the Order of the British Empire to Dr Kani. In his acceptance speech, Dr Kani humorously welcomed honourable minister Gayton McKenzie and recalled a remark by Pallo Jordan during his time as Minister of Arts and Culture.
In addition, Briefly News states that Dr Kani was honoured with an honorary doctorate by the University of Cape Town in 2006, a Doctor of Philosophy from Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in 2013 and another honorary doctorate from Wits University in 2020.
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