Pretoria - Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa has paid tribute to actor Tshepo Ngwane, who starred in a number of popular local dramas such as Yizo Yizo and Zone 14.
The Minister said Ngwane will be remembered for excelling in his work and successfully bring to life his television characters.
Ngwane passed away at Jabulani Hospital on Tuesday. He was 39 years old.
Born in Ermelo, Mpumalanga, Ngwane gained popularity when he appeared in the late 90s hit Yizo Yizo as Thiza, which marked a turning point in South African television.
Ngwane also appeared in another popular series Zone 14 as Doctor Mdu Sibiya.
These productions reflected an authentic image of township life, captured the lives of young people and articulated the anxieties of people in a democratic society.
Minister Mthethwa conveyed condolences to all those who admired, loved and cared for Ngwane. The Minister said Ngwane’s meteoric rise in his career was propelled by his innate humility.
“Our thoughts are with his family and friends, the television industry, as well as all his fans.”
The Minister also called on the current generation of actors to walk in his footsteps and through their acting enter a dialogue with new audiences and continue to tell the South African story that Ngwane could and did tell so well.
Minister Mthethwa said Ngwane’s dedication to his acting career demonstrated his love for acting as an art form that speaks to society in profound and life-changing ways.
“His acting revealed the truths of the realities of our times and captured the imagination of countless viewers.
“He was much loved and much endeared by those who worked with him and will be remembered for his dedication to his art and enduring passion,” said Minister Mthethwa. – SAnews.gov.za
