Remembering Nandi Nyembe: funeral and memorial service details announced

The family of veteran actress Nandi Nyembe, who passed away on Saturday, August 23, at the age of 75, has announced the details of her memorial and funeral services.

The memorial service will be held on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 11:00am at The Market Theatre in Newtown. The funeral service will follow on Saturday, August 30, with the venue to be confirmed.

Her passing was confirmed in a joint statement from the family and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.

The statement described her as a performer whose work spanned more than five decades and whose impact shaped South African storytelling.

“Her journey broke barriers. She inspired young actors in villages and townships to dream beyond their circumstances, showing them that greatness is not defined by where you come from, but by how deeply you are willing to give of yourself. Mam’ Nandi gave us everything,” the statement read.

Tributes from across the country have followed the news of her passing. Actor Spaces posted, “The loss of a giant will be felt far beyond what we can see or explain. Nandi Nyembe’s contribution is imprinted in our theatres, sets and books."

"A thespian of note and a true joy to be around. We stand in applause for your final curtain call. Your impact lives always.”

Ulrich Janse van Vuuren wrote, “Rest peacefully, Mme Nandi Nyembe. Actress, icon and storyteller of our times. The industry owes you far more than it ever gave. Your voice and presence will be deeply missed. A heartbreaking loss for South Africa.”

Artist and designer David Tshabalala reflected on her influence, saying, “Mam Nandi’s ability to portray motherly, wise and strong female figures made her a trusted face on South African screens for decades. She literally raised us from the other side of the TV screen. #RIPNandiNyembe.”

Nyembe’s career stretched back to the early 1970s. She was known for a range of roles across television and film.

Audiences will remember her as Sis’ Nandi in the drama series “Yizo Yizo”, as the resilient mother in “Zone 14”, and as a key figure in shows such as “Isibaya”, “Soul City”, “Lockdown” and “House of Zwide”. Nyembe also appeared on shows like “Adulting” and “How to Ruin Christmas”.

Her work established her as one of South Africa’s most consistent and versatile performers.  

Earlier this year, Nyembe spoke openly about her financial difficulties. In a video that circulated online, she described her struggles after using her savings, about R88,000, for her son’s medical treatment.

She explained that, with no financial cushion, she found herself dependent on others for help. She said she did not want to rely on handouts and wanted instead to continue working despite her health challenges.

Nyembe had been in a wheelchair recently due to declining health. Even with her physical limitations, she was determined to remain active in the industry.

She shared her wish to keep performing, saying she wanted opportunities to work and earn a living rather than be treated with pity.

Her performances were marked by authenticity and depth. She was often cast in roles that reflected wisdom, compassion and strength, which made her a familiar and trusted presence in many households.

Nyembe leaves behind a record of work that is central to the history of South African television and film. Her performances on screen and stage created a legacy that will be remembered long after her passing.