Dumi’s death robbed SA of a soaring young talent
ONE of the most sudden and saddest deaths that shook Mzansi this year was that of talented young actor and singer Dumi Masilela‚ who died after he was shot in a botched hijacking.
In August, shortly after Dumi publicly declared his love for and traditionally married actress Simphiwe Ngema‚ the 29-year-old died.
The talented former soccer player‚ singer and Rhythm City actor’s death left a gaping hole in the entertainment industry.
Tributes poured in as thousands mourned a life filled with potential that was taken too soon.
Not only did Dumi steal the hearts of South Africans on the soccer pitch‚ but his determination to make it in life saw him pick himself up after a car accident ended his soccer career.
After that setback‚ he poured himself into music. This passion saw him try out for Idols SA season eight, broadcast in 2012. His bright personality and melodic voice made him a firm favourite in the competition.
He did not made it past the top 18‚ but by then SA knew he was talented and the short stint on Idols opened an unexpected door for him: acting.
But perhaps the saddest thing about his death was the fact that he left his new bride a young widow.
At the funeral‚ Simz took to the stage to pay an emotional tribute to her husband.
After singing a worship song in his honour‚ she poured her heart out about the love they had shared.
“One of Dumi’s talents was loving me effortlessly and so truly.
“Not many people get to experience what I experienced. People long for that kind of love.”
Dumi will remain in the hearts of many South Africans. — DDC