Tributes pour in for Gomora star
COLLEAGUES, friends, loved ones and the entertainment industry are reeling in shock after the disheartening news of the death of Siyabonga Zubane, popular for his role as Sdumo in the Mzansi Magic telenovela Gomora.
Zubane died aged 23 after allegedly taking his own life.
His death has once again evoked strong calls across social platforms on the importance of the need for men to be more vocal about their feelings and the challenges they face.
Though the family has not yet issued a formal statement on his untimely death, his colleagues and close friends from Gomora conveyed their condolences on social media.
Shirley Adonisi from M-Net channels said they will always treasure his contribution to the entertainment industry. “We are saddened about the passing of Siyabonga Zubane.
“His debut role in 2017, was Bhungezi on Isibaya. Recently, he was Sdumo on Gomora.
“We would like to extend our condolences to Siyabonga’s family. His contribution to the TV industry will be treasured,” she shared publicly.
Siphesihle Ndaba who plays the role of Mazet on Gomora, also conveyed a heartfelt message on social media.
“I have been waiting for the past 24hours for you to call me and tell me you are just kidding. Still no call. Kubuhlungu Siya. Thank you for leaving a piece of you with me after the scene. I love you mnganam. Phumla.”
Television presenter Zola Hashatsi took to social media and reitereated the need for men to exercise speaking out. “I am touched and saddened by the young 23-year-old thespian Siyabonga Ndlondlo Zubane’s suicide. He was mos def on the rise. We need to curb and speak out as males, young, middle-aged, and old.
“We can’t keep giving in and allowing suicide to rule us, especially in industry. I am hurt.”
South Africans expressed their concerns about the entertainment industry and how saddening it is for popular personalities to resort to taking their own lives. Since 2022 kicked off, it has been a spate of tragic news with each month someone announced to have ended their life.
Most of them are linked with the most pervasive topic of mental health.
Just a few months apart, the entertainment industry had to bear the loss of notables such as actor Patrick Shai and musician Riky Rick.
More details about Zubane’s sendoff are yet to be confirmed by his family.