'You still had a lot to give' — tributes pour in for actor Don Mlangeni

17 April 2025 - 10:13

By Joy Mphande

Image: Veli Nhlapo Don Mlangeni died on Wednesday.

The South African entertainment industry is in mourning after the death of Don Mlangeni on Wednesday.

The renowned veteran actor died aged 65. The cause of his death has not yet been revealed.

Social media has been flooded with tributes and condolences as his legacy and impact in the entertainment industry are remembered.

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Actress Nicole Bessick reflected in a post on her experience on set with the late star.

“I was lucky enough to share laughs, stories, and industry insights with him throughout filming — moments I’ll treasure for the rest of my life. His wisdom was effortless. His presence undeniable. And his kindness, unmatched. And then came the day we shot the season 1 cliffhanger,” she wrote.

“Death be not proud. You still had a lot to give. What a gentleman. RIP,” singer Yvonne Chaka Chaka wrote.

Yvonne Chaka Chaka on Instagram: "Death be not proud. You still had a lot to give 😭😭😭💔💔💔What a gentleman RIP"

Sannah Mcunu on Instagram: "🕊️🕊️🥺🥺"

David Tshabalala on Instagram: "Before streaming, and when SABC Dramas defined an era - The 1990’s lay claim to some of the truly golden moments of SA Television. Enter Don Mlangeni Nawa - whose characters captured the imagination of a nation. His longevity speaks volumes and he was a mainstay on our screens in recent times too. RIP Bra Zeb. #ripdonmlangeni #ripdonmlangeninawa #illustration #graphicdesign #digitalart"

TshedzaPictures on Instagram: "Tshedza Pictures joins the millions of South Africans in mourning the passing of the legend that was Don Mlangeni Nawa. We were fortunate enough to experience first hand the brilliance of his gift in various of our productions like The River, The Republic and Legacy. Rest in Peace Bra Don 🕊️"

Gagasi FM on Instagram: "GENews 🕊| Veteran Actor Don Mlangeni Has Passed On 💔! The family of veteran actor Don Mlangeni has sadly announced his passing through a statement on his social media platform. Don was a powerful presence in the South African acting scene, cherished for his memorable performances in popular shows like Hlala Kwabafileyo, Ubambo Lwami (where he portrayed David), S’Gidi Snaysi (as Laqhasha), and Isidingo (as Bra Zeb), among many others. May his soul rest in peace.🕊️ #RIPDonMlangeni #GagasiFM #TheSoundOfKZN"

Ukhozi FM Official 📻 on Instagram: "Sithi dudu emndenini, abangani kanye nakade esebenza nabo uBaba uDon Mlangeni. Lala uphumule, uyibekile induku ebandla🕊 #RIPDonMlangeni #UkhoziFM"

mnettv on Instagram: "MultiChoice has lost a true icon. Don Mlangeni Nawa’s performances in The River, The Throne, Rockville, Legacy, and Shaka iLembe were unforgettable, and his career spanned decades of incredible work. Thank you for bringing such joy and inspiration to so many, Bra Don. Rest in peace."