WATCH: ‘I just want to live a decent life’

Posted on August 15, 2025
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PICTURE: X/ GLEN GABELA

It seems like it is becoming normal for South African artists to live in destitution after years of their hard work. Joining the list is legendary actor, Glen Gabela, who recently opened up about his state of living.

Glen made a name for himself as the young Shaka on the 1986 version of Shaka Zulu historical series, he also played on Yizo Yizo and Uzalo.

The heart-wrenching video clip of him was shared virally on social media platforms. It displayed a dusty bedroom with one of his accolades, a mouldy fridge filled with bottles of water, and his almost empty cupboard. The lady who shared the video pleaded with Mzansi to assist Glen where they can, and she shared that she brought groceries for him.

In the video, a teary Glen said: “I want a decent life. I want to live decently like every normal person, which is why I make these attempts to engage with people. I want to grow the film industry so that young and upcoming performers don’t end up like us. I want their lives to be better, I don’t want them to live the life we live.

“You listen to the stories of top actors when they pass [away], you listen to the stories told and how they struggled. Almost all of us, when we reach this age, we reach a stage where we … it’s a pity I am not able to ask for help. It’s hard for me to ask for help. That’s all I need, just to live decently, I don’t need to be rich, I just need to live a decent life.”

 

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Also see: Ma’am Nandi Nyembe facing health and financial challenges – pleads with the public for assistance