The South African entertainment industry came to a standstill on Saturday as hundreds of mourners packed the Jack Botes Hall in Polokwane to bid an emotional farewell to veteran actor and theatre legend Seputla Sebogodi before his final journey to Silicon Cemetery, where he was laid to rest.
The funeral drew an impressive gathering of celebrated actors, filmmakers, family members, friends, government leaders, traditional leaders and admirers from across the country, all united in honouring one of South Africa’s finest performers whose career spanned more than four decades.
Best known for his unforgettable portrayal of Kenneth Mashaba in Generations, Sebogodi also left an indelible mark in productions such as Scandal!, The River, Suburban Bliss, Bophelo ke Semphego, Rhythm City and numerous acclaimed stage productions.
Throughout the service, fellow actors took turns sharing heartfelt tributes, describing Sebogodi as a gifted performer, mentor and father figure who inspired generations of artists.
Many struggled to hold back tears as they reflected on his professionalism, humility and dedication to the craft. They recalled how he generously guided young actors on set, often reminding them to respect the profession and remain disciplined regardless of their success.
Several speakers described him as an actor who never sought fame but instead dedicated his life to telling authentic South African stories that touched millions of television viewers.
His family delivered emotional tributes celebrating a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather whose greatest joy was spending time with those closest to him. In a message from his wife, Rosina Semenya, read by their daughter Malashi Semenya, Sebogodi was remembered as a loving and committed family man who never ended a day without expressing his love to his family.
His children thanked South Africans for the overwhelming support they had received since his passing, saying the outpouring of love demonstrated the profound impact he had made both on and off the screen.
Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba, accompanied by Limpopo MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture Jerry Maseko, joined mourners in paying tribute to the veteran actor. Government leaders described Sebogodi as a cultural icon whose contribution to the country’s arts and heritage would continue inspiring future generations. They said South Africa had lost one of its greatest storytellers whose work reflected the nation’s history, struggles and aspirations.
Traditional leaders also honoured the late thespian, praising him for remaining proud of his Limpopo roots despite achieving national and international recognition.
Outside the hall, hundreds of fans lined the streets to catch a final glimpse of the funeral procession, applauding as the hearse departed for Silicon Cemetery.
The atmosphere at the cemetery was equally sombre as family members, friends and colleagues gathered for the final farewell before Sebogodi’s coffin was lowered into the ground.
Prayers, hymns and songs echoed across the cemetery as mourners comforted one another, bringing to a close the life of a man whose performances entertained South Africans for decades.
Sebogodi died earlier this month following complications related to diabetes. He leaves behind a rich artistic legacy that shaped South African theatre and television and inspired countless actors who will continue to carry his influence into future generations.