The South African entertainment industry is reeling from the unexpected loss of one of its most respected talents, Wiseman Sithole, who passed away suddenly on Sunday, 29 June 2025, just two days after celebrating his 51st birthday.
A Storied Career Across Stage and Screen
Born on 27 June 1974, Sithole was a fixture in South African theatre and television. He was best known for his powerful performances in acclaimed local productions such as 90 Plein Street, Shooting Stars, and Projek Dina. On Shooting Stars, he brought to life the role of a nefarious soccer agent, while in 90 Plein Street and Die Sentrum, he delivered performances that resonated deeply with audiences.
His versatility saw him take on roles in a wide array of series and films, including:
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Suidooster
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Summertide
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Straat
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Mooiweer en Warm
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Projek Dina
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Jiva!
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Strike Back
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Charlie Jade
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Master Harold … and the Boys
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Konfetti
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Zulu
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Cape of Good Hope
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Eine Liebe in Afrika
Tributes from Colleagues and Fans
The news of Sithole’s passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the industry. Fellow actor Marc Pleass shared:
“I’m absolutely floored. I truly can’t believe this awful news. After years of admiring Wiseman from afar, I was honoured to finally work with him just over a year ago. A warm, quiet gentleman and a truly gifted actor, humble, proud, and deeply human. We shared stories as fathers and connected as peers. Rest in peace, Wiseman. I hope to see you again so we can do some more funny faces.”
Lee-Ann van Rooi, another colleague, reminisced:
“We finally got to work together for a whole week… had plans to work together later in the year… a colleague and friend from the time when Stokvel and Fishy Fashions were 2.5 day shoot rotation swing sets. For TV2. We minded our own business but now and again would enjoy a car park smoke and a story. I don’t smoke anymore and this is the last of your story. R.I.P my brother.”
Fans, too, have taken to social media to express their shock and sadness, with messages like, “Oh dear, so many passing. Rest in peace, Wiseman.”
A Loss Felt Across the Arts
Sithole’s passing comes at a particularly poignant moment, as he was preparing to perform in Athol Fugard’s iconic play, Boesman and Lena, taking on the role of Outa, an old Xhosa man. Director Christo Davids expressed his sorrow, stating:
“The world has lost a true gentleman. Committed to his craft with unwavering dedication to his fellow actors and colleagues.”
A Legacy of Excellence and Humanity
Wiseman Sithole’s legacy is one of artistic excellence, humility, and a deep commitment to storytelling that reflected the complexities and richness of South African life. His absence leaves a void not only in the industry, but in the hearts of all who had the privilege to work with or watch him perform.
