The young thespian who was at the peak of his career died this morning and according to social media speculations apparently he committed suicide. Siyabonga was well known for portraying the character of Sdumo, a car hijacker on Mzansi Magic's telenovela Gomora.
The show has confirmed his passing in a statement sent to Daily Sun. "It is with heavy hearts that we confirm the passing of one of our cast members, Siyabonga, who played Sdumo. He passed away in the early hours of this morning," read the statement.
The show also comforted his family during this difficult time. Siyabonga landed his big break in the industry after scoring a one day role on Isibaya, as Bhungezi ,before the show was cancelled. Messages of condolences to his family have already started pouring in on social media, and many people have expressed their heartbreak at his untimely passing.
His colleague Leera Mthethwa, who plays Mrs Jackie Hlongwane on Gomora. Also took to her Twitter account to share how saddened she is following his passing.
Siya’s passing is unbelievably painful. So young. So TALENTED. So gentle. May God accept your soul ntwana. Rest 💔
We were happy to see u on TV(Gomora)after a difficult journey u had to go through and today we woke up in sad news...Rest in peace My Gee🙏🥺💔 Sdumo#GomoraMzansipic.twitter.com/QMlnZ1yIiy
— The Lord Of The Wings @Arsenal Biggest fan 🏐⚾ (@lisa_maliee) May 7, 2022
His family is yet to release a statement.
This is a DEVELOPING STORY.
In an interview with Drum Magazine, Siyabonga expressed his passion for the arts, saying he studied Performing Arts at Tshwane University of Technology and he majored in dance. He said from a young age, he has always been eager to be a performer.
“I loved the arts from a young age. I went deep and I studied dramatic art in high school before going to university. However, with my love, talent, and gift, I still have to go through the same route as all actors and performers go and I have to audition for every role like it’s my first,” he told the publication.
He said he did not regret his decision because it allowed him to be more versatile.
“My initial plan was to study dramatic arts; but by the time I got to TUT, the faculty could not take any more students. I had to choose any faculty in the Arts campus, that's how I ended up doing dance studies. But I have absolutely no regrets as it allowed me to be versatile,” he said.
News of his passing comes as the entertainment industry is still reeling following the passing of hip-hop artist Riky Rick who reportedly took his own life in February 2022. The rapper had opened up about his struggle with depression before.
Prior to his death, legendary actor Patrick Shai also passed away after reportedly committing suicide. He was reportedly found dead by his wife in a garage at his home in Dobsonville.
