New Brighton-born veteran actor and playwright Dr John Kani has been awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his lengthy service to the theatre and film industry.
Instituted in 1917 by George V, the awards were created during World War I to reward services to the war effort by people not on the front line. However, they are now awarded to civilians who have made major contributions to any sector, including business, science and the arts.
Kani said of the accolade: “I cannot express how blessed and humbled I feel right now. I have worked with a lot of British actors, both in theatre and movies, who always had this OBE title. I am happy that at least I get to be seen as a South African who should be honoured.”
"Mostly in SA, we think about doing our work, how it reaches and makes an impact in our society. We think about entertaining others and even money. One thing the British people work towards always is being recognised. I feel as honoured as I should be and humble at the same time. Now I can sign my name and say ‘Dr John Kani OBE’”
Kani says that when the time is right, he will travel to Buckingham Palace to have the honour officially bestowed upon him by His Majesty King Charles.
80-year-old Kani was last seen in his hometown of Gqeberha in July of 2022 when he brought his internationally acclaimed play Kunene and the King to the Nelson Mandela Bay Theatre.
