‘Our dad put in all his efforts and had a kind spirit,’ remarked one of Mgudlwa’s sons during the memorial service.
Family, friends, and colleagues gathered in Randburg on Wednesday to honor the late actor Oscar Mgudlwa, affectionately known as Madluphuthu, at his memorial service.
“He was a humble and patient individual, and those wonderful qualities influenced us all,” shared actor Innocent Masuku, who is fondly remembered for his role as Bobo on Yizo Yizo.
Mgudlwa passed away a week ago, with the cause of death still undisclosed. He was 49 years old.
“He was more than just an actor. We had many projects lined up together, but those plans are now unfulfilled. Rest well, my dear friend,” Masuku expressed.
Asanda, one of Mgudlwa’s sons, described his father as a genuinely good-hearted person.
“Our dad put in all his efforts and had a kind spirit. He cared deeply for his family, his children, and his friends. He prayed often and offered us invaluable advice,” Asanda reflected. The actor is survived by four children.
Asanda was among the first to announce his father’s passing to the public on the day he died.
Mgudlwa: A Trailblazer
Mgudlwa was a trailblazer in the low-budget film industry, which saw remarkable growth in the 2000s with the rise of DVD popularity.
Through his roles in films like My Sh*t Father and My Lotto Ticket, as well as Madluphuthu 1 and Madluphuthu 2, Mgudlwa quickly became a household name with his portrayal of the intellectually disabled and comedic character Madluphuthu.
These films, often priced under R50 for DVDs, became staples in many townships, resonating with the infectious humor appreciated by local communities.
Before establishing his name in film and comedy, Mgudlwa briefly pursued a career in Kwaito music, collaborating with the late Mapaputsi in 2001 and releasing an album with Mina Nawe’s Man Child in 1998.
Originally from Daveyton in Ekurhuleni, Mgudlwa, while perhaps not as visible as in his prime, remained well-regarded in the industry at the time of his passing.
Notable figures, including film and television director Mandla N and hip-hop artist Kwesta, were present at his memorial service, as well as singer and actor Jamela Vuma, affectionately known as J Ross.
Vuma shared that he and Mgudlwa’s dressing rooms were adjacent while working on a project together, recalling, “Every morning began with prayer, and by the second month into the show, we were inseparable. On our last day on set, we prayed as a cast. I truly believe he is with the Lord now.”
