Temba Dube
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
THE curtain has fallen on one of Mzansi’s most beloved TV icons.
Don Mlangeni Nawa, the veteran South African actor who stole hearts as Zebedee “Zeb” Matabane on the long-running soapie Isidingo, has died aged 65.
The news was confirmed by his grieving family, who issued a heartfelt statement on Tuesday, 16 April 2025.
“It is with deep heartbreak that we share the passing of our beloved father, Don Mlangeni Nawa… To the world, he was a gifted and respected actor whose presence lit up every stage and screen he graced,” the family wrote.
Nawa, known for his booming voice, wise one-liners, and no-nonsense father figure role, became a household name across southern Africa, thanks to his 16-year reign as Zeb Matabane on Isidingo, the former SABC 3 prime-time favourite.
But his star didn’t shine on just one stage.
Nawa also lit up screens in hit productions such as The Estate, The Throne, Legacy, Sgudi Snaysi, Uzalo, Abomama, and Ubambo Lwami — proving his acting chops across genres and generations.
Fans have flooded social media with tributes, remembering him as a legend, mentor, and storyteller supreme.
The family has asked for privacy during this painful time, adding that memorial and funeral details will be announced in due course.
Rest in power, Zeb. You raised a generation through our screens.
Gone but never forgotten.
derick.khumalo