South Africa’s entertainment industry is mourning the sudden loss of actor Wiseman Sithole, who passed away on Sunday night, June 29, 2025, just two days after his 51st birthday. Sithole’s death was confirmed by his agency, ERM Stars, which described the news as “shattering” and expressed deep sorrow over the passing of a “legend of an actor.”
Timeline of Wiseman Sithole’s Career
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Early 2000s: Wiseman Sithole began to establish himself in South African film and television. He appeared in films such as Eine Liebe in Afrika (2003) and Cape of Good Hope (2004), playing supporting roles including a bus driver and police officer.
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2005: Featured in the TV series Charlie Jade as a Vex-cor agent and appeared in the TV movie Einmal so wie ich will.
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2008–2010: Gained widespread recognition for his role as Lucky, a shrewd soccer agent, in the popular e.tv drama series Shooting Stars. This role became one of his signature performances and earned him a strong fan base.
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2009: Narrated the short film Izingwe.
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2010–2014: Continued to build his filmography with roles in Master Harold and the Boys (2010), Zulu (2013), and Konfetti (2014). He also appeared in the TV series Strike Back (2011) and Suidooster (dates unspecified).
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2015–2020: Acted in various television series including Projek Dina, Straat, and Mooiweer en Warm. His versatility allowed him to take on diverse characters in dramas and telenovelas.
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2020–2023: Starred in Mandla and Catch Me a Killer (Showmax), where he played Mlungisi Gwala. His performances during this period solidified his reputation as a seasoned and reliable actor.
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2023–2024: Continued appearing in TV series such as Tronkwag, Straat (as Xolani Makeba), and Mooiweer en Warm. He remained active in the industry up until his passing.
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2025: Was preparing to perform in the Afrikaans stage production of Athol Fugard’s Boesman and Lena at the Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees, demonstrating his strong roots in theatre alongside his screen work.
Wiseman Sithole was a celebrated figure in South African television and theatre, known for his compelling performances and versatility. He gained widespread recognition for his roles in popular local dramas such as Shooting Stars, where he portrayed a nefarious soccer agent, as well as 90 Plein Street, Die Sentrum, and Showmax’s Catch Me a Killer. His impressive body of work also includes appearances in Projek Dina, Suidooster, Summertide, and films like Cape of Good Hope and Master Harold and the Boys.
Beyond his screen presence, Sithole was a respected stage actor, regularly performing at arts festivals and preparing for an upcoming role in Athol Fugard’s play Boesman and Lena at the 2025 Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees. His dedication to his craft was evident up until his untimely passing.
Tributes have poured in from colleagues, friends, and fans alike, reflecting the profound impact Sithole had on those around him. Actor Marc Pleass shared heartfelt memories on Instagram, describing Wiseman as a “warm, quiet gentleman” and “a true thespian” whose humility and talent left a lasting impression. Pleass also noted their shared bond as fathers and peers, expressing deep sadness at losing such a special man.
Roshina Ratnam, a former classmate from UCT drama school, expressed shock and sorrow, sending love to his family and friends. Penguin Films and Artscape Theatre also paid tribute, highlighting Sithole’s unforgettable energy and brilliance on stage and screen.
Sithole leaves behind a wife and children, and his family has requested privacy as they grieve. Details regarding funeral arrangements are expected to be shared in due course.
