Online Reporter
Veteran South African actor Sello Maake KaNcube has paid an emotional tribute to fellow actor Seputla Sebogodi, following his passing on July 15 due to diabetes-related complications.
Although the two screen legends did not share the stage during their respective soap opera careers, they worked together in theatre productions and shared a deep respect for one another.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Maake KaNcube reflected on the painful timing of his last public comments about Sebogodi, revealing that he never imagined they would become a farewell.
“Life has a way of humbling us. When I wrote my last post, my intention was simply to defend the truth and protect the dignity of a fellow artist. I never imagined that those words would become my final public words about Seputla.
“Today, they read differently. They feel like a goodbye I never knew I was writing. My heart is heavy. We have lost more than an actor; we have lost a gifted storyteller, a colleague, and a man whose contribution to South African television and theatre will remain part of our cultural heritage.
“To his family, friends, and everyone who loved him, I extend my deepest condolences. May God grant you strength during this painful time.
“Rest well, Seputla. Thank you for the memories, the laughter, and the legacy you leave behind. You have taken your final bow, but your work will continue to inspire generations to come. May your soul rest in eternal peace.”
Sello Maake KaNcube previously defended Seputla Sebogodi
Maake KaNcube’s tribute comes just days after he publicly defended Sebogodi when a photograph of the veteran actor promoting a theatre production went viral on social media.
The image was widely shared without context, leading many to believe that Sebogodi had fallen on hard times and was living in poverty.
However, the photograph had been taken during promotional activities for the theatre production “Black Moon” at the National Arts Festival in Makhanda.
In a strongly worded statement at the time, Maake KaNcube criticised those who circulated the image for online engagement, saying the public had been misled.
“As artists, we already face enough challenges without having our work repackaged as propaganda for engagement,” he wrote.
He stressed that the photograph depicted professional work and did not reflect Sebogodi’s personal circumstances, accusing social media users of exploiting the dignity of a respected actor for clicks.
“There is a difference between raising awareness and misleading the public. The truth matters. Respect matters. Our industry deserves better,” he added.
A lasting legacy
Sebogodi’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, fans and members of South Africa’s entertainment industry, who have remembered him as one of the country’s finest performers.
For Maake KaNcube, his final public words about his colleague have taken on a deeper meaning, serving not only as a defence of Sebogodi’s dignity but also as a poignant farewell to an actor whose legacy will continue to inspire generations of South African storytellers – IOL.
