Phetoe’s death shocks industry
Tributes stream in for veteran actor
Former Generations actor David Phetoe, 86, died at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital yesterday morning after a short illness.
According to president of the Creative Workers Union of South Africa (Cwusa), Mabutho “Kid” Sithole, Phetoe was rushed to hospital in the early hours after complaining of short breath.
Phetoe also featured in popular comedy series Sgudi ’Snaysi with the late Joe Mafela. The seasoned actor also acted in shows such as Velaphi, Going Up, and Imvelaphi.
He also appeared in the film Cry, the beloved Country. Phetoe played the original character of Paul Moroka on Generations. Sithole said Phetoe’s career began at the famous Dorkay House in Johannesburg.
He said the industry was saddened by the death of one of its greatest thespians.
“Bra D was a true fountain of wisdom and a straight talker. We grew up under his guidance both in the arts and here in the township,” Sithole said.
“He was a talented and unique actor. Bra D and his contemporaries like Sam Mhangwane and [Malefetsane] “Fats” Bookholane rehearsed in town when it was not fashionable for blacks to do that.”
Mhangwane, the co-founder of Drankersburg Promotions, said they started doing theatre in the 1960s together with Phetoe. He said Phetoe later went overseas to feature for acclaimed production, Sponono.
The SABC sent their condolences to the Phetoe family.
“The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC’s) board, management and staff would like to extend their heartfelt condolences to the Phetoe family, friends and fans, ” read the SABC’s statement.
“Phetoe has contributed enormously to the country’s entertainment industry thus assisting the SABC in fulfilling its mandate to inform, entertain and educate our audiences.”
Sithole said the funeral details would be confirmed soon.