A few days ago, Mandla ‘Mampintsha’ Maphumulo left South Africans in devastation after it was announced that he had died at 40 after suffering from a stroke.
Johannesburg - As the year 2022 approaches its end, South Africa looks back at the deaths that staggered the entertainment industry, leaving families, fans and colleagues reeling in grief.
A few days ago, Mandla "Mampintsha" Maphumulo left South Africans in devastation after it was announced that he had died at 40 after suffering from a stroke.
Afrotainment confirmed his untimely passing: "It is with great sadness that we share the news of the untimely passing of the multi-award-winning artist Mampintsha. Born Mandla Maphumulo from Umlazi, KZN of Big Nuz fame passed on today, 24 December."
The entertainment industry also said goodbye to local renowned broadcaster Pearl Shongwe in November, who was 35-years-old when she died in her sleep in her Johannesburg home on November 8.
DJ Sumbody, whose real name is Oupa John Sefoka, was confirmed to have died on November 20 by his management, Sumsounds Music, leaving mayhem to his fans, friends, and those who worked with him.
The beginning of the year has been shrouded in heartbreaking news with all the losses that South Africans have had to bear.
In January, South Africa woke up to the news that veteran actor Patrick Shai had died by suicide in his Soweto home. Shai was popular on screens and many remembered him for his immeasurable contribution to the arts.
February was also not an easy month to navigate after three deaths were confirmed. Sabelo "DJ Citi Lytes" Mkhize was announced to have died after being shot several times in Soweto. Mkhize was the younger brother of the late, popular, and iconic rapper Linda "Prokid" Mkhize. The musician was known as the star behind hits such as Vurra and Shishiliza.
In the same month, media personality Kuli Roberts died after she reportedly collapsed on the set of her new show. "She arrived on set around 7pm, where they were filming with other artists. She collapsed," the friend told City Press.
February also saw the death of popular music icon Riky Rick, who was reported to have died by suicide after battling mental health for a long time. The announcement of his death sent social media platforms into a meltdown, with many reeling in shock. Not only was Riky a well-known music star, but he was also a trendsetter in the world of fashion.
It had barely been a month when the entertainment industry had to accept the untimely death of DJ Dimplez. He passed away on March 6, from a sudden brain haemorrhage. The award-winning DJ was also known as someone focused on developing and pushing hip hop talent in South Africa.
In early May, news broke that a young talent named Siyabonga Zubane had died at 23-years-old after taking his own life. Zubane was popular for his role as Sdumo in Mzansi Magic’s telenovela Gomora and was remembered for his effortless contribution to the entertainment industry.
Iconic gospel singer Deborah Fraser left many reeling in shock after her sudden death following a short illness. In a statement, the family of gospel singer Deborah Fraser confirmed her passing on Sunday, May 15.
A few days ago, popular Thespian Jamie Bartlett, who was known for his portrayal of David Genaro on Rhythm City, died after suffering cardiac arrest. Bartlett was hailed as one of the most distinguished villains that Mzansi had ever anticipated.
Tladi, who was fondly known as Tumi Tladi in the entertainment industry, was 30-years-old when he died on July 10 in Johannesburg, leaving many alarmed by his death.
Mncedisi Shabangu, best known for his role as Khulekani on Rhythm City and regarded as the epitome of protest theatre by those who knew him, is also among the stars who have died this year. Shabangu passed away on July 24.
Esteemed Thespian Busisiwe Mokoena Lurayi was best known for her remarkable body of work. The prolific actress was pronounced dead at her Johannesburg residence on Sunday, July 10.
The entertainment industry also mourned the untimely death of the legendary kwaito star Tokollo Tshabalala, who was fondly known as Magesh.
Magesh was part of the popular Kwaito group TKZee, alongside other renowned music artists Kabelo Mabalane and Zwai Bala.
His family confirmed the sad news of his death in a statement issued by TKZee on social media, revealing that he passed away as a result of an epileptic seizure on August 15.
The Star