Beloved Actor Don Mlangeni Nawa Passes on Aged 65
Venerated South African actor Don Mlangeni Nawa has passed away at the age of 65. The saddening news of Nawa’s sudden passing was announced by the family through his Instagram account.
Although details surrounding the departure of Nawa remain shrouded, the family confirmed that Don passed away on Wednesday, the 16th of April 2025.
“It is with deep heartbreak that we share the passing of our beloved father, Don Mlangeni Nawa, on 16 April 2025.
“He was the heart of our family – a loving father, brother, and friend. To the world, he was a gifted and respected actor whose presence lit up every stage and screen he graced. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the stories he told, and the love he gave so freely.
Don Mlangeni Nawa | SUPPLIED
“We are deeply moved by the outpouring of love and support. We kindly ask for privacy as we grieve this immense loss.
“Details regarding the memorial and funeral arrangements will be shared in due course,” said the statement from the Nawa family,
Nawa will be remembered for his excellence on screen, with many perhaps recognizing him for his role as Bra Zeb on SABC 3’s soapie Isidingo. The Boksburg born star started his career in the late 1980s on ‘Sgudi ‘Snaysi as the famous bat-wielding loan shark wearing a postboy cap called Laqasha, before co-starring as David on Ubambo Lwami in 1989. He went on to secure several roles in other shows before his big break came in 1998 when he joined Isidingo as Zebedee Matabane till 2014.
Nawa has also starred in other shows such as SABC 1’s Uzalo, The Throne, The Estate, The River, and the acclaimed series Shaka iLembe, where he played King Langa in 2023.