Tributes pour in for veteran actor, Don Mlangeni Nawa

Tributes are pouring in for legendary actor, Don Mlangeni Nawa, following the news of his passing.

The Boksburg-born actor was best known for his roles in popular for his portrayal as Laqhasha in the popular sitcom ‘Sgudi Snaysi’ and the role of Zebedee “Bra Zeb” Matabane on the hit show ‘Isidingo’.

With an acting career, which began in the 1980s in theatre, the renowned thespian has also acted on shows like ‘Hlala Kwabafileyo’, ‘Uzalo’ and ‘The Throne’, ‘The Estate’, ‘Shaka iLembe’ and ‘Savage Beauty’.

He was recognised for his contribution to the industry in 2018, when he was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Royalty Soapie Awards.

The 65-year-old’s passing was announced by the family through his Instagram account. It, however, did not reveal the cause of his demise.

 

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A post shared by Mlangeni Nawa (@donmlangeninawa)

South Africans on X have shared the messages of condolences for the legendary actor.

Oh, no uLaqhasha 💔🕊️ pic.twitter.com/orwOKlwvJu

— Matana (@TieOnto) April 16, 2025

DON MLANGENI NAWA 💔🕊🎬
From David on Ubambo Lwami to Zeb Matabane on Isidingo & every colorful character in between. At 65, Bra Don transcends to be with his ocean of families who await him on the other side. May his soul rest in peace❤️🤍
#RIPDonMlangeni #RIPDonMlangeniNawa pic.twitter.com/DujOFBph4Q

— Bekithemba Zulu 🇿🇦 (@BekithembaZ) April 16, 2025

We extend our heartfelt condolences on the passing on of legendary actor and cultural icon, Don Mlangeni Nawa. He is remembered for his work on S’gudi Snaysi, Isidingo: The Need, Uzalo amongst many more.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Robala ka Kgotso Ntate.… pic.twitter.com/6USdIO0XGv

— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) April 16, 2025

The passing of Ntate Don Mlangeni — our beloved Laqhasha from ’Sgudi ’Snaysi, Zebedee Matabane from Isidingo, Dhlomo from Uzalo and many others ; represents an incalculable loss to our nation’s creative heritage.

Born and raised in Gauteng, Ntate Mlangeni’s talent knew no… pic.twitter.com/tIrCLkfEMW

— Matome Chiloane (@matomekopano) April 16, 2025

Rest in Peace Ntate Don Mlangeni Nawa aka Bra Zebedee Mathabane (from Isidingo The Need)
Pass our profound greetings to your onscreen daughter Lethi Mathabane and Every other Comrade that we lost🕊️🕊️
Thank for the Indelible memories 🫡 pic.twitter.com/jA8ZFsIOOo

— Geoffrey Lea (@Geoffrey87Lea) April 16, 2025

RIP Bab’ Don Mlangeni, you entertained us for many years on our small screens.

My favorite character was uLaqhasha. 😅

#RIPDonMlangeni 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/LFhKVk9R9K

— m a s h è s h a 💨 (@_mashesha) April 16, 2025