Award Winning Actor, Director and Writer Mncedisi Shabangu Has Passed Away.
Award-winning actor, director, and writer Mncedisi Baldwin Shabangu, was best known for his character as Khulekani Ngobese on Rhythm City unfortunately passed. According to a press statement issued by the family, the multidiscipline thespian passed in the early hours of Sunday morning. His cause of death has not been shared with the public as yet.
“The family appreciates all messages of condolence and requests privacy at this difficult time. Memorial and funeral arrangements will be issued soon,” the statement said.
Shabangu was best known for his role as Khulekani Ngobese on Rhythm City but starred in several other TV productions such as The Lab and Home Sweet Home. He also starred in several theatre productions such as Secret Agenda, Orpheus, Ways of Dying, and Call us Crazy. Shabangu directed productions such as Kanyamazane, Wangesheya-Wangesheya, and Vuka Machel at the Market Theatre.
Since the news of his death, tributes have streamed in for the 53-year-old actor. Artistic director of the Joburg Theatre, James Ngcobo said he will remember Shabangu for his great passion for storytelling.
“Mncedisi was one of the greatest storytellers this country has ever produced, and I’m not just saying this because Mncedisi has passed away, it is the truth. Anyone who has acted or been around Mncedisi would tell you, he was an orator of note,” he said.
Mzansi Magic said it was “saddened” to learn about Shabangu’s death. “The television industry has suffered a loss. May your soul rest in peace. Mzansi Magic is honoured to have worked with the talented actor on the iNumber Number drama. Your contribution to the arts is treasured.”
The National Arts Festival said it was saddened by the news of his death, adding that the 2004 Standard Bank Young Artist for Theatre was a gifted and prodigious actor, director, and playwright. “Our deepest condolences to his family and friends.”
FrontPage would like to offer heartfelt condolences to the fallen thespian and thank him for his endless contributions to the art of theatre in its entirety. Rest In Eternal Peace.