Legendary ‘Isidingo’ star Don Mlangeni Nawa, known as Zeb Matabane dies aged 65

SOUTH AFRICA – Legendary South African actor Don Mlangeni Nawa (65), who starred in such productions as Isidingo and Ubambo Lwami, has died.

Nawa’s family confirmed this in a statement on Wednesday morning. The family did not disclose his cause of his death.

“It is with deep heartbreak that we share the passing of our beloved father, Don Mlangeni-Nawa, on 16 April 2025.

“He was the heart of our family, a loving father, brother and friend. To the world, he was a gifted and respected actor whose presence lit up every stage and screen he graced,” read the statement.

While the family’s statement would not reveal the cause of his death, Nawa’s uncle, fellow veteran actor Mabutho “Kid” Sithole, a veteran actor revealed to Sunday World had been sick since August 2024.

“I do not know what the exact cause of his death was. He has not been well since August last year,” said Sithole. He was struggling with some parts of his body and would experience stomach pains.”

Sithole said Nawa was someone who loved the lighter side of life.

“He was a simple fellow who loved what many artists loved. He loved picnics and entertainment. He was not close to debates, social issues, and politics. He loved the lighter side of things.

“I do not remember seeing him at meetings where artists would discuss their grievances,” said Sithole.

Mlangeni Nawa is best known for his role as Bra Zeb Matabane on then SABC 3’s Isidingo from the 1990s to 2014, but he rose to fame in the 1980s as Laqhasha on Sgudi Snaysi.

Over his decades-long career, Mlangeni Nawa also featured in Uzalo, The River, The Throne, and Savage Beauty.

In 2006, he received a South African Film and Television Award for Best Actor and was honoured with Lifetime Achievement awards at the Royalty Soapie Awards and Simon ‘Mabhunu’ Sabela Awards.