It is with immense sadness that we have learnt of the passing away of one of South Africa’s best known and internationally recognised actors, Zakes Mokae.
He worked alongside Athol Fugard and through this organic partnership between playwright and actor, an international audience came to be conscientised about the problems besetting South Africa through powerful plays such as “The Blood Knot”.
After his move to the United States as a result of his acting career being blocked by the apartheid government, he continued to perform in films that spoke to the South African struggle as well as venturing out into new roles that allowed him to expand his acting horizons.
He had the unique ability to appeal to diverse audiences irrespective of race or class. He was also multi-talented and versatile and could perform equally well on stage and on television as well as in films. He also took on the role of director in theatre.
We acknowledge his great contribution to both theatre and film and the part he played in the struggle against apartheid. We also recognise that he was a man of conscience, conviction and great courage who believed in what he stood for. Even in the United States he took the struggle against racism seriously and he also co-founded the Black Actors Theatre with Danny Glover.
Zakes Mokae was a pioneer, who negotiated and opened the pathway for many South Africans internationally. We shall miss him deeply but we shall also remember him for the roles he played, in which he loomed larger than life. These roles captured our imagination and also captivated the world.
Our sincere condolences to his wife, Mandy and their two sons, and to his family and friends.
Hamba Kahle Zakes.
Media enquiries:
Lisa Combrinck
Cell: 082 821 4886
Mack Lewele
Cell: 082 450 5056
Issued by: Department of Arts and Culture
16 September 2009
Source: Department of Arts and Culture (http://www.dac.gov.za)
