Veteran actress Nandi Nyembe has opened up about her financial difficulties and is actively looking for work.
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Beloved South African actress Nandi Nyembe has spoken out about her financial difficulties, revealing a heart-wrenching story of financial struggle and resilience.
In a candid video circulating online, Nyembe shares her frustrations and determination to continue working despite her health challenges.
Known for roles on sports drama “Zone 14” and the Netflix comedy series “How To Ruin Christmas”, Nyembe shares that she has been in the entertainment industry for an impressive 53 years.
Throughout her remarkable 53-year career, Nyembe has brought to life some of the most iconic characters in South African television.
She has played a multitude of memorable roles, including Dolly on Mzansi Magic’s “Isithembiso”, MaZwide on “House of Zwide” and Gog’Mkhithi on “Isibaya”.
The award-winning actress has been wheelchair-bound due to her deteriorating health. However, her physical limitations have not diminished her passion for acting, and she is eager to continue working.
She shared that her financial struggles began when she spent her savings, approximately R88 000, on her son’s medical treatment. With no financial safety net, Nyembe has found herself in a difficult position, with circumstances forcing her to rely on others for support.
However, Nyembe is adamant that she does not want to rely on handouts or donations, as she does not like it when people pity her. Instead, she is seeking equal opportunities to work and earn a living.
“I may be wheelchair-bound, but my brain is not dead,” she said. “Give me a script, and I’ll show you that this brain is so alive,” she added.
The story of the 74-year-old actress comes shortly after Brenda Ngxoli, another beloved actress, opened up about her struggles with finances and family.
Ngxoli’s courage in sharing her story sparked an outpouring of support, with fans and industry professionals rallying around her with donations and job opportunities.
While Nyembe acknowledges Ngxoli’s bravery in seeking help, she emphasises that she wants to take a different approach. Rather than relying on donations, Nyembe is determined to prove that she still has so much to offer as an actress.
Nyembe’s story showcases the harsh realities faced by many aging actors and performers in the Mzansi entertainment industry. Despite her extensive experience and contributions to South African television and film, Nyembe is struggling to make ends meet.
In September 2024, another award-winning actress, Gcina Mkhize, revealed her struggles with the lack of job opportunities in the film industry.
In a distressing video that circulated online, she shared her desperation, having gone months without work. Her situation was further complicated by a landlord who was taking advantage of her, putting her family at risk of losing their home.
As Nyembe continues to seek opportunities to continue working and make ends meet, her story serves as a reminder of how South African entertainers, especially actors and performers, still find their years of contributing to the industry marked by financial struggles rather than dignity and financial security.