SA mourns the loss of South African actor Patrick Ndlovu
Written by Brooklyn Masuku on 1 June, 2023
Veteran South African actor Patrick Ndlovu, who has been a part of our TV viewing for more than four decades, has yesterday died at the age of 85. Known for his role as Ntate Moloi in Zone 14, Patrick Ndlovu graced South African screens for decades.
On Wednesday, Moonyeenn Lee Associates (MLA SA), which manages and represents multi-award-winning actors, announced his death on social media. He was 85.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of legendary actor Patrick Ndlovu, whose acting career spanned more than four decades”.
Other than his role as Sizwe Moloi in Zone 14, Ndlovu was famous for playing Mr Thembu in the popular SABC 1 TV series Yizo Yizo.
“We were proud to represent such a consummate professional and majestic talent. He was a kind and gentle man, always ready with a smile, even when times were tough,” the agency said in their post. His cause of death has not yet been disclosed.
Following the news, many took to social media to pay tribute to the actor.
Film director Thabang Moleya said he worked with him on Zone 14 and he was kind and encouraging.
“Directing on Zone 14. Many years ago. Ntate Patrick was so gentle and kind. I was still very much in my shell at this age. Ever so encouraging. We grew close. A memorable time. Rest in power. You will be missed by many. #RIPPatrickNdlovu” he wrote on Twitter.
The Queen actor Vuyolwethu Ngcukana said: “What an honour to have worked with this man, a true professional, gentle, warm and generous, a legend in his own right and an inspiration to many #RIPPatrickNdlovu“
Magabane, who acted with Ndlovu in his first television production Yizo Yizo, said Ndlovu and the late Patrick Shai welcomed them into the industry.
Ndlovu played the role of Mr Mthembu, a no-nonsense principal with passion in the drama series that first hit the TV screens in 1999.
Magabane defined Ndlovu as a very disciplined and committed actor who did not mind to share knowledge with young actors.
“It is a sad day for the acting industry. When I came into the industry, I knew nothing about TV acting. Both Bra Pat Ndlovu and Pat Shai took us through the ins and out of the industry. I have learned a lot from Bra Pat [Ndlovu]. He was very humble and soft-spoken. I have never heard him shouting at someone. He never regarded himself as a celebrity.
“I also worked with him when we were doing Isithembiso. He was disciplined and arrived early to make sure he was prepared when shoot starts. Now that he is gone it is our responsibility to take the baton and show the young ones how it’s done. Bra Pat will be sorely missed,” said Magabane.
Award-winning actor Nthati Moshesh said Ndlovu had supported her throughout her career.
The curtain has closed. You have played your many parts well & enriched the human experience. Rest easy ntate Patrick Ndlovu, Gatsheni, Boya Benyathi… pic.twitter.com/YAR3ddyvFh
— Wonder Peters (@PetersWonderboy) May 31, 2023
Legendary and talented actor Patrick Ndlovu has passed away , May his Soul Rest In Peace 🕊️🕊️🕊️ pic.twitter.com/S9Hp351f3t
— The Instigator (@Am_Blujay) May 31, 2023
#RIPPatrickNdlovu Patrick Ndlovu used to kill his role on Zone 14 as Ntate Moloi rest in peace legend 🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/TqmZuAooZE
— Jabulani Macdonald ⚡️ (@Jabu_Macdonald) May 31, 2023
We would like to send our deepest condolences to his family, and friends during these trying times.
