Nandi Nyembe, a celebrated South African actress and cultural figure, passed away at 75, sparking widespread tributes and urgent calls for reforms to support veteran artists in the industry.
Nandi Nyembe, known as “Mam’ Nandi,” passed away on August 23, 2025, at 75 years old after a long illness. Her death was confirmed by her daughter and the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture, marking the end of an acting career that lasted nearly four decades. Nandi was a talented performer recognized for her roles in popular shows such as Zone 14, Yizo Yizo, and Soul City, as well as films like Yesterday and Reasonable Man. Besides acting, she was a sangoma, or spiritual medium, which added depth to her performances.
In the wake of her passing, many tributes poured in from across South Africa. The Gauteng Legislature’s SACR Committee referred to her as a “cultural torchbearer,” while actor Nhlanhla Kunene described her as “a walking master class. ” Many fans and fellow creatives remembered her as a “giant of storytelling” and celebrated her kindness. Journalists highlighted the void her absence leaves in the artistic community, noting her dignity and powerful presence on screen.
Nyembe’s death sparked important discussions about the neglect of veteran artists in the South African entertainment industry. Despite a fundraising event earlier that year, she did not receive the promised support, prompting concerns about unmet commitments made to her. Minister Gayton McKenzie had pledged assistance but only visited her home after her death. This situation fueled calls for reforms within the industry, with actors and advocates calling for better protections for performers’ rights and financial futures.
As social media users urged Parliament and the President to support the Performers’ Protection Amendment Bill, voices from the SA Guild of Actors expressed frustration over systemic issues facing artists. They pointed out the need for legislative changes to prevent similar losses in the future.
Nandi Nyembe’s legacy is not only about her extraordinary performances but also serves as a call for change in the industry. To honor her memory, there is a need for immediate actions that ensure aging artists receive fair treatment, including equitable wages and a focus on mentorship. Communities are encouraged to remember her through scholarships, festivals, and workshops, reflecting the spirit she embodied. South Africa has the chance to address these issues, ensuring that the contributions of artists like Nandi Nyembe are recognized and valued in meaningful ways.
