By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
South Africa has lost another actor, Mncedisi Baldwin Shabangu has passed away at the age of 53.
Shabangu’s family has confirmed that he died on Sunday morning after complaining of chest pains.
His brother, Mthokozisi, says the actor died at a local clinic after complaining of feeling unwell.
“He was sick and later we took him to the clinic and he was certified dead after that. It was not a long illness. He just complained about his chest.”
Shabangu was popular for his role as Khulekani on eTV’s soapie, Rhythm City, and he won a SAFTA for this role.
Despite his illustrious career spanning decades, he was heavily involved in theatre and was even dupped as The Godfather of Mzansi’s theatre. He enrolled at The Market Theatre Laboratory and went on to further his studies with The Royal National Theatre Studio. Here are some of the awards he managed to scoop during his acting career.
°Standard Bank Young Artist Award.
°Best Supporting Actor in a TV Soapie at the South African Film and Television Awards
°Fleur du Cap award
°KKNK gong for best actor for Tshepang
°FNB Vita Award for Best Actor in a supporting role.
The SAFTA award-winning actor has also written, directed and acted on various stage plays such as Asinamali, The Suitcase, Vuka Machel, Mooi Street Moves, Barbershop and many more.