Sipho Ngema, the Mzansi actor much loved for his roles in Uzalo and Rythym City died of heart failure caused by pulmonary hypertension last week – he was just 47. According to his daughter Mbali, he passed away in a Johannesburg hospital. The family, devastated by his sudden death, have yet to finalise funeral arrangements.
As news broke of the popular actor's untimely passing tributes began to pour in on social media from fellow actors and fans alike.
Thomas Gumede, award-winning actor, director, filmmaker and part-owner of Parental Advisory Productions paid tribute to Ngema saying: "Sipho will be sorely missed. We grieve the loss of a tremendous person and talented entertainer."
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The Rhythm City cast and crew paid tribute to their fellow thespian via a statement released to the press by the show’s creative director Eric Itumeleng Mogale, it read :
“ We would like to send our heartfelt condolences to the Ngema family. May the Good Lord protect your beautiful hearts in these challenging times. We truly lost a friend, a fighter and an artist.
Ngema shot to fame after landing the role of Raymond on the e.tv soapie Rhythm City. His role as Terror on "Uzalo and parts in the Mzansi Magic miniseries Stash in 2013 and more recently on e.tv's Isipho proved that Ngema was one of South Africa’s most versatile actors.
May you rest in peace Sipho Ngema.
