South Africa’s entertainment industry has lost yet another giant.
Veteran actress Nandi Nyembe, who has been hailed as the very soul of South African storytelling, passed away on August 23 at the age of 75.
She was best known for her roles in Isibaya, Soul City, Zone 14, Yizo Yizo, Jacob’s Cross, Isithunzi, Adulting and the Oscar-nominated film Yesterday.
Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie and the Nyembe family confirmed her death on X (formerly Twitter) this past weekend.
“It is with profound sorrow that the Nyembe family, together with the National Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, announce the passing of one of South Africa’s most treasured icons of the arts, Mam’ Nandi Nyembe,” read the statement.
“Mam’ Nandi was far more than an actress; she was the very soul of South African storytelling. A teacher, a guide, and a mother to this nation, she carried our struggles, our laughter, and our victories through every performance with truth, dignity, and heart.”
It is with profound sorrow that the Nyembe Family, together with the National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, announce the passing of one of South Africa’s most treasured icons of the arts, Mam’ Nandi Nyembe. pic.twitter.com/oflFaFcgBX
— Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) August 23, 2025
Her grandson, Jabulani Nyembe, spoke on behalf of the Nyembe family.
“Our hearts are broken as we share the loss of our beloved mother and grandmother, Nandi Nyembe. To the world, she was a gifted actress; to us, she was our everything. Her love, laughter and strength will stay with us always. We are so grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers and support during this time,”
Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Matome Chiloane also extended his condolences, describing Nyembe as a cultural giant.
“Mme Nandi’s career, spanning more than five decades, added richly to the cultural tapestry of the nation,” he said.
X users shared their tributes
Mam Nandi’s ability to portray motherly, wise, and strong female figures made her a trusted face on South African screens for decades. She literally raised us from the other side of the tv screen. #ripnandinyembe #nandinyembe pic.twitter.com/n08L8XaW3U
— David Tshabalala (@SlayingGoliath) August 24, 2025
The absence of her jovial spirit will hurt for a long time to come.
Umam’Nandi Nyembe was powerful, wise as she was kak hilarious! Spoke her mind freely & shared her heart without shame. I admired that about her.
Praying for her loved ones, lala ngoxolo mama #NandiNyembe. 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/5zz3rg8gB4
— Sihle Mnqwazana 🇿🇦 (@sihle_shona) August 24, 2025
I remember growing up watching you from the days of school TV, Fundani nathi. The singing, dancing and great storytelling. You made learning so much fun. You were truly a legend of storytelling even though out the other platforms, you perfected your craft. RIP #NandiNyembe pic.twitter.com/DqwEXNr4JO
— Pamela Maringa (@Abigail41353917) August 24, 2025
Also see: Nandi Nyembe reveals that Gayton broke his promise to visit
