Award-winning actor, director, and writer Mncedisi Baldwin Shabangu has died.
According to a press statement issued by the family, the former Rhythm City actor died in the early hours of Sunday morning. His cause of death has not yet been revealed.
However, it has been revealed by a family member, Mthokozisi Shabangu that the late actor died in his home in Mpumalanga. After vomiting and complaining of chest pains.
“The family appreciates all messages of condolence and requests privacy at this difficult time. Memorial and funeral arrangements will be issued soon,” the statement said.
Mncedisi was best known for his role as ‘Khulekani Ngobese’ on Rhythm City but starred in several other TV productions such as The Lab, Home Sweet Home and iNumber Number among many others.
He also starred in several theatre productions such as Secret Agenda, Orpheus, Ways of Dying, and Call us Crazy.
Shabangu directed productions such as Kanyamazane, Wangesheya-Wangesheya, and Vuka Machel at the Market Theatre.
Following the news of his death, tributes have been streaming in for the 53-year-old actor. The actor’s industry friends, Fana Mokoena, Atandwa Kani, Sello Maake KaNcube and more celebs pay tribute.
Industry friends who have worked with the late, reveal that they are saddened by the star’s passing.
Maake ka Ncube tells Sowetan that it is a very sad loss of life that has a domino effect on the industry.
“Mncedisi was not an industry to the family but a father, a son, or even an uncle. To his family, I send my heartfelt condolences.”
The fallen star who received a SAFTA for his role in e.tv’s Rhythm City as Khulekani has also written, directed, and acted on various stage plays such as Asinamali, The Suitcase, Vuka Machel, Mooi Street Moves, Barbershop, and many more.
We are saddened to learn about the passing of Mncedisi Shabangu. The television industry has suffered a loss. May your soul rest in peace. Mzansi Magic is honoured to have worked with the talented actor on the iNumber Number drama. Your contribution to the arts is treasured. pic.twitter.com/EeTIadj8yF
— Mzansi Magic (@Mzansimagic) July 24, 2022
Talented actor Atandwa Kani and his father John Kani, who has acted with Shabangu in numerous plays also paid tribute on his Instagram account.