Legendary actor Joe Mafela dies
Condolences are pouring in for the family of much loved South African actor, director and all round entertainer, Joe Mafela.
Mafela died in a car crash late last night on the M1 north, just before Oxford Road in Johannesburg.
His niece confirmed the news to JacarandaFM News.
"We are just still quite traumatised at the moment to be honest. It's a very difficult time for us," says Millecent Mulelu.
Mafela was born in Sibasa, Limpopo and raised in Soweto.
He made his acting debut in 1964.
Mafela has been a household name for decades - appearing on our TV screens in productions such as Sgudy's Snays, Madam and Eve, Fela's TV and more recently, Generations.
He was 75.
South Africans have been reacting to the news of his death on social media.
Many have expressed shock and sadness - wishing Mafela's family strength during this time.
Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa paid homage to Mafela in a series of tweets showcasing his illustrious career.
"We believe the nation has lost its crown jewel and an extraordinary sun of the soil," says the spokesperson for the Arts and Culture Department Lisa Combrinck.