A memorial service will be held this morning at Rhema Bible Church in Randburg, Johannesburg, for the late television personality Akhumzi Jezile.
Jezile was travelling to the Eastern Cape for a family ceremony last weekend when he was involved in a fatal crash on the N6 between Queenstown and Jamestown in the Eastern Cape.
Two other artists, Thobani Mseleni and Siyasanga Kobese, were among the five victims who died in the crash.
The eZibeleni-born Kobese was an actress who played the character of “Siphokazi” in the drama series Zabalaza. She was also well-known for her powerful voice while singing with Joyous Celebration choir.
Fort Beaufort-born Mseleni was introduced to South African television viewers while playing roles including that of "Bhonyongo" in the drama series Matatiele and recently, as Babalo in the award-winning movie Inxeba: The Wound.
The multi-talented actor, producer, TV and radio presenter, Jezile, was a familiar face in South Africa. The ever-smiling Mthatha-born star started as a presenter on SABC’s children’s programme YoTV.
In 2014, his acting talent was recognised when he won a SAFTA Award for his role as Ngulube in the television drama Tempy Pushas.
Tributes have been pouring in for the late stars and Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa said the nation has been dealt a triple and breath-taking blow.
"Death has robbed our nation of three of its versatile and glittering lodestars who- like the 'three wise men from the East' came into this world bearing precious gifts and shared them generously,” the Minister said on Sunday.
All three were young, brilliant shining stars from whom the nation undoubtedly derived joy and delight from their long careers- and lives, Minister Mthethwa said.
The funeral service for Jezile will be held at also at Rhema Bible Church on Saturday and the procession will leave for the West Park Cemetery thereafter. – SAnews.gov.za
