My first experience of Sello Motloung on stage was his role as The Writer in the late Mncedisi Shabangu’s adaptation of the Stephen Gray play Cold Stone Jug in 2004.

Despite having watched this giant displaying his acting prowess in Ring of Lies (where he played the father of the late Mpho Sebeng’s character), Invictus, Jerusalema and numerous other television productions, hearing of his passing on 15 September instantly takes my mind back to Cold Stone Jug.

Shabangu had an uncanny ability to bring a comic element to even the most serious of plays without losing the gravity of the message, and Motloung personified this.

Details surrounding his passing are still unclear. However, his death came as a shock to many, including an industry professional who shared that they had spoken with him just two days ago.

In fact, on Sunday, the day of his passing, Motloung took to Facebook to pay tribute to Darlington Michaels, his co-actor in the 1997 film Chikin Biznis who transitioned to another realm on Friday 13 September.

He wrote:

Connie Chiume – who also stared Chikin Biznis – took her final bow last month. Theatre producer Napo Mashiane shared her devastation on Facebook saying her heart was broken over Motloung’s passing as the two had recently spoken.

The ink he used to write “The scene didn’t make it to the final print” would not dry out before Motloung too drew his final breath.

At this point it would be fair to say that the acting fraternity in South Africa is bleeding given the number of thespians who have departed this year alone.

Sello Motloung and Mpho Sebeng, who played father and son in Ring of Lies. Both actors passed away in 2024
FacebookSello Motloung Facebook page

Motloung’s facebook page is telling of his philanthropy as this was the space he always took to, to show appreciation for the various individuals who had an impact on his life, from healthcare professionals to drivers to other actors he shared the stage with.