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Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
Creatives who worked with the late veteran actor Aleck Zulu have described him as a larger-than-life character who had respect for every thespian he shared the stage with, with some describing him as “the king of the stage”.
Zulu, who was famous for playing “Skoro” on Amakhosi’s series Amakorokoza, died on March 30, 2026, at the age of 54.
His uncle and fellow actor, Memory Kumbota, confirmed his death.
“Aleck Zulu died at his rented home in Sotshangane Flats. He was admitted to Mpilo Central Hospital a few days ago but was discharged after showing signs of life. He is survived by his sister, as he didn’t have any children,” said Kumbota.
Zulu’s journey in the arts was one of talent, complexity, and ultimately growth. He gave Bulawayo and beyond characters that will live on in people’s memories forever. He became etched into audiences’ minds as the menacing “Skoro” in the Amakhosi soapie Amakorokoza, and as the gangly troublemaker Godogodo in Sinjalo.
His portrayal of a thief in the drama Sister Theresa was so convincing that even members of his own Catholic congregation had to remind themselves it was just a role. This was the power of Aleck Zulu; he did not just play a character, he inhabited it completely, blurring the lines between fiction and reality.
Kumbota said the arts industry has lost an icon who will not be easy to replace, as Zulu played each role he earned with precision and dedication.
“He died doing God’s work as he was helping youngsters from St Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church in presenting a Passion of Christ play for the upcoming Easter. We lost a true icon of the stage,” said Kumbota.
Zenzo “Mzambani” Nyathi, who was part of the star-studded group of thespians cast on Amakorokoza and also did skits with Zulu performing as the “Security Guards”, said Zulu was the “king” of the stage.
“He used to call me mdala most of the time. I’m not sure why he called me that way, because I think it had to be the other way round. Sometime last week, he said most of the people he met were missing our duo, the ‘Security Guards’. In response, I promised to talk to Raisedon Baya to make our return.
Unfortunately, that was the last time I spoke to Zulu. I’m seriously hurt. Skoro was the king on stage and on screen, and he’ll forever be,” said Nyathi.
Playwright Thabani Hillary “TH” Moyo said Zulu was an actor of extraordinary range and commitment, adding that he was the villain many loved to hate.
“Zulu was a meticulous researcher, drawing inspiration from the people and life around him in the community to bring authenticity to every role. This dedication is what made his performances so chillingly real and so captivating to watch.
“While the public often saw him as the characters he portrayed, those who knew him in the theatre world understood the depth of his growth and his generosity.
“In recent years, Aleck had become a mentor, a senior figure who cherished imparting his vast knowledge of theatre to younger actors, helping to shape the future of the art form he loved so dearly. He was an actor by profession, but he became a teacher and a guide by passion,” said Moyo.
Mourners are gathered at 164 Sotshangane Flats. The burial is set for today, with a service at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, followed by interment at Umvutsha Cemetery in Bulawayo.
Online Reporter