By Rorisang Modiba
- Nandi Nyembe, 75, says she’s heartbroken to be begging for donations despite still being fit to work.
- She shared her pain in a video posted by Masingita Masunga, highlighting the harsh reality of SA’s acting industry.
Legendary actress Nandi Nyembe has broken down in tears as she opened up about her painful financial struggles and health problems.
In a heartbreaking video shared on Facebook by disability activist Masingita Masunga, the wheelchair bound 75-year-old actress pleads for donations from the public.
Nyembe says she never thought things would get so bad that she would be forced to ask for help after working in the industry for more than 50 years.
“It’s hard, this industry. Now I feel it, I really do feel it,” she says, wiping away tears.
“Now I’m at a level where I have to ask people to please donate. But I’m not that kind of person.”
Nyembe, known for her roles in Zone 14 and Yizo Yizo, says she’s still willing to work, but there are no acting jobs available.
“I’m disappointed,” she says.
“I can still act, but there’s no work. And now I must beg.”
“I may be wheelchair-bound, but my brain is not dead,” she adds. “Give me a script, and I’ll show you that this brain is so alive.”
Her emotional appeal has sparked an outpouring of support and sadness from fans, many of whom say it’s shocking to see such a respected figure struggling.
“This is sad I am willing to donate,” wrote one user on X.
Another commented: “I asked this question last week, why are our actors and actresses struggling so much financially? What needs to be done?”
Nyembe is not alone. Other artists including Vusi Thanda, Dr Malinga, Lusanda Mcinga, Carlo Radebe and Brenda Ngxoli have also gone public about their money struggles.
Her story adds to growing concern over how ageing performers are treated in South Africa, with many left without a safety net after decades of service to the industry.
Pictured above: Nandi Nyembe.
Image source: @nandinyembe and @masingitamasunga
