By: Saneliso Mlambo
Mourners have gathered at the South African State Theatre in Pretoria to pay tribute to veteran actor Seputla Sebogodi during his memorial service on Thursday. Family members, friends, fellow actors and fans are celebrating the life and legacy of the acclaimed performer, who died on 15 July at the age of 63 following complications related to diabetes, according to his family.
Sebogodi built a career spanning more than four decades in South African theatre, television and film. He became a household name for his portrayal of Kenneth Mashaba on Generations and also appeared in productions including Yizo Yizo, Soul City, Stokvel, Scandal! and Death of a Queen. He was widely respected for mentoring young performers and for his dedication to the country’s performing arts.
The memorial service has drawn leading figures from the entertainment industry, with many expected to share personal tributes reflecting on Sebogodi’s influence as an actor, director and mentor. The gathering is celebrating both his artistic achievements and the lasting impact he had on generations of South African audiences and performers.
A second memorial service is scheduled for Friday at Jack Botes Hall in Polokwane. Sebogodi’s funeral will take place at the same venue on Saturday, where he will be laid to rest in Limpopo.