Viewers saddened to learn Mncedisi Shabangu joined Uzalo just before his death

The South African television industry has once again hit a curveball after losing one of its best actors with the passing away of one of the stars who was set to join Uzalo, Mncedisi Baldwin Shabangu.

According to a statement shared on social media a few days ago, Mncedisi lost his life in Mpumalanga on the 24th of July after complaining of chest pain. He died earlier on in the day. The family appreciated the messages of condolence and asks fans of Shabangu to let them mourn his death in private. Plans for a memorial carrier and funeral arrangements will be announced soon.

DiepCity actor Hamilton Dlamini, who has worked a lot with Shabangu, said that they had lost a great deal in Mncedisi as he was an artist who is not easy to replace.  He revealed his friend was supposed to start filming for Uzalo on the 25th of July and start a sequence of European tours, with the play The Head and The Load in November. “I don’t know what to say, but I’m sad. I discovered a lot from him. He usually said that without school training, you could not be triumphant; however you can prevail if you work hard,” Hamilton was quoted.

The actor of Uzalo, Omuhle Gela, indeed confirmed that Mncedisi should have started filming for Uzalo just the day after his unexpected and harsh death. Everyone was excited to work with the legend, from the actors to the camera crew. They all believed they could learn a lot from Mncedisi.”Death is not proud” is what most fans had to say on social media after finding out this man was robbed of such a huge opportunity that was well deserved!

The deceased was born in KwaMashu 53 years ago but grew up in KwaNyamazane, Mpumalanga. He ultimately became in love with theatre at a young age. He then started analyzing the discipline at the Market Theater Laboratory, which he carried throughout his acting career.

Over the years, he has acted in and written various plays, tv, and films. He received the 2004 Standard Bank Young Artist Award and Best Supporting Actor at the SAFTA. He acted in Secret Agenda, Woza Albert, Home Sweet Home, Ways of Dying, Asinamali, Rhythm City, The Lab, The Suitcase, and The Other Woman. He attended Khalifani High School, where he commenced his very successful acting journey and enjoyed a leading role.

Read more: