Born on August 19, 1950, in Kliptown, Johannesburg, Nandi Nyembe’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a cornerstone of South African entertainment is nothing short of inspiring.
Early Life and Beginnings
Raised by her grandmother, a government school teacher, while her parents pursued careers in the arts, Nandi’s exposure to performance art was early and profound. Her mother was an actress and tap dancer, and her father was a boxer. This unique upbringing laid the foundation for her future in the arts.
Theatre and Film Career
Nandi’s professional journey began in 1971 with a play written and directed by Sol Rachilo. By 1979, she had joined the Market Theatre as a bar attendant, but her talent quickly caught the eye of visiting directors. In 1980, she joined the cast of Sophia Town, directed by Malcolm Perkey, which toured internationally, including France, Germany, San Francisco, and London.
Her filmography boasts notable works such as Saturday Night at the Palace (1987), A Reasonable Man (1994), and Yesterday (2004). She also featured in The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency (2008), Gog’ Helen (2012), and Safe Bet (2015).
Television Roles
Nandi’s television career is marked by iconic roles that resonated with audiences. She portrayed Nandi Sibiya in Zone 14 and Lily in the hit teen drama Yizo Yizo (2001–2004). Her role as MaGetty in Adulting (2023–2025) showcased her versatility and continued relevance in the industry.
Legacy and Final Years
Despite facing health challenges in her later years, Nandi remained passionate about her craft. In April 2025, she expressed a desire for continued work opportunities, stating, “Give me a script, and I’ll show you that this brain is so alive.”
Nandi Nyembe passed away on August 23, 2025, just days after celebrating her 75th birthday. Her legacy endures in the hearts of all who had the privilege to witness her talent.
Rest in peace, Mam’ Nandi. Your light continues to shine.
