South African actor Seputla Sebogodi dies at 62

Veteran South African actor Seputla Sebogodi died on the evening of July 15, 2026, following complications related to diabetes, his family confirmed in a statement. He was 62 years old. The news has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the nation's entertainment industry and from fans who remember his commanding performances across television, film, and theatre for more than four decades.

Sebogodi was best known for his portrayal of the formidable businessman Kenneth Mashaba on the SABC soap opera Generations, a role he began in 2005 and which cemented his status as a household name. His career, however, began much earlier, rising to prominence in the 1980s with the Pedi drama Bophelo ke Semphego. He also starred in the sitcom Suburban Bliss and, more recently, appeared in Scandal! and other television productions such as Rhythm City, The River, and the international film The Woman King.

Beyond the screen, Sebogodi was a celebrated and dedicated theatre performer. His stage credits included roles in productions like Big Dada, Waiting for Godot, The Rivonia Trial, Once a Pirate, and Mooi Street Moves. He remained committed to live theatre throughout his life, even...