Popular South African actor and songwriter, Joe ‘Sdumo’ Mafela, has died.
Police told journalists in Johannesburg that Mafela died in a car accident late Saturday evening along the M1 North highway in Johannesburg.
According to several publications and radio stations, which included the South African Broadcasting Corporation where he made his name in acting and sitcoms.
In a statement, SABC said, "The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), is saddened to learn of the sudden passing of arts veteran Mr Joe 'Sdumo' Mafela. Mr Mafela was a giant in his field and had become a voice and face of the industry.
“The multi-talented Mr Mafela, who was also known as a singer/songwriter and producer and who recently appeared on SABC 1 soapie 'Generations: The Legacy', will be remembered for his memorable acting roles in TV shows such as the hugely popular 'Sgudi 'Snaysi' , where he portrayed the character 'Sdumo' a nickname which stuck with him through the years. Other notable SABC TV programmes where he starred in throughout the years are 'U' Deliwe,'? 'Going Up', 'Kululeka' 'Madam and Eve' and the drama series 'Stokvel', of which he came up with the concept.
”The SABC sends its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, viewers and fans who have followed his esteemed career, in TV, stage and film over the past 40 years."
The late 75 year old actor started his career in the 1960s.