The entertainment industry and fans across South Africa are mourning the loss of beloved actor Oscar “Madluphuthu” Mgudlwa, who was laid to rest on Saturday, 26 July, at Lala Ngoxolo Cemetery in Crystal Park, Ekurhuleni. His funeral service, held at Oasis of Life Family Church in Daveyton, was attended by numerous celebrities, colleagues, and supporters who came to pay their last respects to the late star, who passed away on 16 July following a short illness.
A Call for Support for Creatives
During the heartfelt service, Gift Motaung of uMkhonto Wesizwe Creatives urged families to support artists and not judge them during their struggles. Motaung highlighted the financial and emotional hardships faced by actors and musicians despite their fame.
“When people see us on TV, they think we’re making a lot of money. The truth is, in this industry, we are paid long before the show even airs, and often actors end up with nothing,” said Motaung. He stressed the importance of providing emotional support to artists, who often deal with mental health issues in silence.
Referring to Madluphuthu’s own struggles, Motaung added, “Oscar was open about his hardships. During his darkest times, he would reach out and ask for help. That’s the kind of vulnerability we need to support rather than judge.”
A Life of Resilience and Hope
Oscar’s nephew, Mbulelo, shared a poignant memory of the hardships they both faced in the entertainment industry. “We were watching The Catch, and Madluphuthu looked at me and said, ‘It’s sad that we are both in this industry, yet we are eating porridge.’ Those were tough times, but he always encouraged me to stay strong and believe that better days would come.”
Mbulelo spoke of his uncle’s unwavering optimism, saying, “He would tell me that life is full of challenges, but we must never give up. His death has left a huge void not only in our family but in the entire acting community.”
Tributes from Industry Legends
Chief Bhekuzulu Nkosi, speaking on behalf of the family, described Oscar as a remarkable soul whose life touched many people. “His passing has shocked us all. We were expecting much more from him, but death has stolen a great talent from us,” he said.
Veteran musician Dan Nkosi echoed these sentiments, saying that Mzansi had lost a shining star. He also conveyed condolences from legendary producer Sello “Chicco” Twala, who could not attend the funeral due to prior commitments.
A Star-Studded Farewell
The funeral drew an overwhelming number of mourners, including well-known names like Israel Makoe, Ronnie Nyakale, DJ Sbu, Sipho Manzini, Sonnyboy Ndlovu, Motlatsi Mafatshe, Gabisile Tshabalala, and other industry peers. Renowned artist Rasta, Lebani Sirenje, also paid tribute by painting a portrait of the late actor.
Final Resting Place
Oscar “Madluphuthu” Mgudlwa was remembered as a man of resilience, laughter, and inspiration. His burial at Lala Ngoxolo Cemetery marked the final chapter of a life that deeply touched both fans and fellow artists. Though gone, his legacy as one of South Africa’s most beloved comedic actors will live on in the hearts of many.
