South African actor and producer, Lumko ‘Johnson’ Leqela has passed away at the age of 32. Condolences to the family and loved ones.
Best known for their starring role as gay fashion designer MJ in the Mzansi Magic telenovela “Inkaba”.
In a statement shared by entertainment commentator Phil Mphela, the former YoTV presenter is reported to have passed away on Wednesday, September 14, “following a short hospitalisation.”
According to the statement, Lumko first entered the public realm as a young teenager on the popular SABC 1 YoTV platform.
The media personality went on to nurture a career in television broadcast, radio production and media at large.
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The family of the deceased also shared a family statement on social media for an immediate release. They also requested the public to respectfully give them time to grieve.
The statement reads as follows:
“It is with great sadness that we share the news of the untimely passing of our beloved Lumko “Johnson” Leqela.
They departed on the 14th of September 2022.
Lumko first entered the public realm as a young teenager on the popular SABC 1 YoTV platform. They went on to nurture a career in television broadcast, radio production and media at large. In their own words, Lumko was an “Accomplished TV & Radio Super Producer, Actor, Writer and Big Deal in Most Spaces”
This is a gut-wrenching loss to the Leqela family, their loved ones, the LGBTQIA+ community and ultimately to the South African broadcast and television community.
Lumko lived a life filled with purpose and authenticity. As we process this shock as a community, let us remember their light in this world.
Details on memorial and funeral arrangements will be shared by the family in due course. The family asks that the public and media respect their privacy as they deal with this difficult loss.”
