Tears flow for ‘Scandal!’ actor, Mokwena

TRIBUTES have poured in after the news of the death of actor Sandy Mokwena, 68. The veteran actor, who was the longest-standing cast member on e.tv’s popular soapie Scandal!, died from natural causes in hospital on Wednesday night.

In a statement, e.tv’s publicist, Michael Pocock, said: “e.tv is deeply saddened by the news and our condolences go out to Sandy’s family and the cast and crew of Scandal! Sandy Mokwena has been part of Scandal! since the first episode which aired in January 2005.”

When the family was approached for comment, they said they were not yet ready to talk.

One of Scandal!’s cast members, Joyce Skefu, who played his on-screen wife, said she was shattered by his death.

“I’m very sad as this is a huge loss for myself and the team. Sandy was like family to me. He had a kind, natural spirit and was one of hardestworking actors I have ever worked with. His qualities were unmatched and he represented a professionalism that is hard to find nowadays.”

Grace Mahlaba, the creative producer for Scandal!, said Mokwena was the consummate professional and passionate about the arts.

“Words cannot express how I feel. It’s been a weird day for me and the Scandal! family. (He was) a man of few words, but very impactful. We had many conversations, but what stands out are the talks about respecting the profession we are in and staying true to the character you’re portraying. What a remarkable man. My condolences go out to the Mokwena family.”

Mokwena cut his acting teeth with the hit musical Iphi Intombi (Where is the girl?) during the 1970s and 1980s, where he starred as Cappie alongside Margaret Singana, the late actress and musician.

He also played the role of Ken Mokoena in the controversial hit TV drama Yizo Yizo, where he was a destructive teacher at the fictional Supatsela High School, the show’s setting.

Details of Mokwena’s memorial service and burial will be released soon.