Glen Gabela’s emotional appeal sheds light on a growing crisis as veteran South African actors face poverty, illness, and neglect in their later years.
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| Veteran actor Glen Gabela, once celebrated for his roles in Uzalo and Shaka Zulu, breaks down in a viral video pleading for help to live with dignity. |
Veteran South African actor Glen Gabela, best known for playing Pastor Mdletshe in Uzalo and portraying the young Shaka in the 1986 Shaka Zulu miniseries, has made a heartbreaking public appeal for assistance.
In a video shared on August 13, 2025, Gabela appears emotional as he explains that he is not asking to be wealthy, only to live a life of dignity. The footage, which reveals a modest and sparsely furnished living space, has sparked an outpouring of sympathy online.
Gabela says his financial troubles began after his Uzalo contract was unexpectedly terminated, despite assurances that the role would be permanent. Without steady work, he has been forced to survive on a government social grant. He has also faced serious health issues, including a heart attack and ongoing depression, which have made it even harder to rebuild his career.
His plea has reached government ears, with Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie announcing plans to contact the actor personally, promising to explore ways to support him.
Not an Isolated Case: Other Veteran Actors in Crisis
Gabela’s plight is not unique. His story echoes that of many other celebrated performers who, after years of entertaining the nation, find themselves in poverty once the spotlight fades.
Nandi Nyembe – With over five decades of acting experience, Nyembe recently revealed she was struggling financially and battling health issues that left her wheelchair-bound. Her candid declaration, “I want a script, not sympathy,” captured the frustration of an industry that often fails its veterans.
Roderick Jaftha – Known as Glen Majozi from Generations, Jaftha has spoken about struggling to pay rent and feed his family due to a lack of acting opportunities.
Gcina Mkhize – Former Isibaya actress who appealed for public assistance after facing eviction.
Carlo Radebe – Star of Generations and Isibaya, who reportedly became homeless and now survives on a government grant.
Vusi Thanda – Beloved Emzini Wezinsizwa actor who went public with his bank details in a plea for help; South Africans raised over R100,000 in response.
The Bigger Problem
Industry experts and the South African Guild of Actors warn that these cases are symptoms of a deeper, systemic failure. Many performers work without retirement benefits, residual income from reruns, or adequate health coverage. Once the roles stop, so does the income leaving even well-known stars vulnerable.
The shelving of legislation such as the Copyright Amendment Bill and Performers’ Protection Amendment Bill has further delayed reforms that could secure royalties and improve financial security for artists.
A Call for Change
Glen Gabela’s story has reignited public debate about the treatment of veteran performers in South Africa. While donations and short-term relief offer temporary comfort, long-term solutions will require industry reform, stronger unions, and legal protections to ensure that those who have given their lives to the craft can age with dignity.
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