Menzi Ngubane has been a regular face on TV screens in South Africa. Known for his roles as Cijimpi on Kwakhala Nyonini, Sibusiso Dlomo on Generations or Judas Ngwenya on Isibaya, the actor is undoubtedly a household name.
Here are 7 things you might not have known about this industry giant.
1. He was born in Zulu land
Ngubane was born in Ladysmith in KwaZulu Natal, which was previously known as the Kingdom of Zululand. Although work brought him to the City of Gold, he still visits his place of birth on a regular basis as that is where his father continues to reside.
2. He’s been in the industry for over 30 years
Ngubane’s big break came back in 1987 when he showcased his talent in the local television series Kwakhala Nyonini. Since then, he has gone from strength to strength, amassing a number of major awards and nominations.
3. He survived kidney failure
Following kidney failure, Ngubane was hospitalised for almost three weeks, and was subsequently put on dialysis from 2010 to 2015 while on a kidney transplant waiting list. The actor, who has spoken openly about his journey, did receive a transplant.
4. He has worked alongside Samuel L. Jackson
In 2004, Ngubane worked alongside Samuel L Jackson in the SA feature film In my Country . The film was based on the 1998 non-fiction novel Country Of My Skull by Antjie Krog.
5. His father turned 90 this year
Ngubane has been blessed enough to see his father enjoy the gift of a long life. In early March, his father turned a whopping 90 years old.
6. He mentors young men
Ngubane started a mentorship programme called “Twelve Auspicious Gentlemen with Menzi Ngubane”.
The programme is focused on the active mentoring of young boys, as well as addressing the impact caused by social ills, which are present in many communities. Through the programme, Ngubane hopes to encourage young men to follow a healthy lifestyle.
7. Lucky in love
Ngubane was once married, with the couple eventually calling it quits in 2013. In 2018, he then married Sikelelo Sishuba in an elaborate Zulu affair.
