Veteran actress Thembi Nyembe dies at 75
Veteran actress Thembi Nyembe has died at the age of 75.
Nyembe’s passing followed a protracted battle against ill-health.
The Department of Sports, Arts and Culture described Nyembe as more than an actress, describing her as "the very soul of South African storytelling".
Nyembe played numerous roles that captivated South Africans, including Yizo Yizo, Soul Buddyz, Isibaya, How to Ruin Christmas, House of Zwide, Isono, Adulting, and Zone 14.
She began her journey performing in theatre productions before moving into television and film.
She was raised by her grandmother, who was a teacher.
Born in KwaZulu-Natal, she and her grandmother settled in Soweto, where her drama career began at the Market Theatre.
Sports, Arts and Culture spokesperson Zimasa Velaphi said Nyembe inspired young actors in villages and townships to dream beyond their circumstances.
“As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate her extraordinary legacy. Her art is eternal, her voice may now be silent, but her spirit echoes in every heart she touched. She lives on in the laughter she brought us, the tears she moved in us, and the dreams she ignited in generations to come.”
Her family described her as a gift to the world through her acting.
“Our hearts are broken as we share the loss of our beloved mother and grandmother, Nandi Nyembe. To the world, she was a gifted actress; to us, she was our everything. Her love, laughter, and strength will stay with us always. We are so grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers and support during this time,” said Jabulani Nyembe, the grandson.
