Being a celebrity may seem like a life of endless glamour, but the reality is often very different. For many, fame and fortune can be fleeting, and maintaining success and financial stability proves a difficult task. In South Africa, several beloved celebrities reached stardom only to face financial hardships later in life. Some lost their fortunes due to lifestyle choices, while others faced devastating illnesses or unforeseen circumstances. Here, we take a closer look at the lives of South African celebrities who passed away after facing serious financial struggles.
1. Brenda Fassie: A Legacy Overshadowed by Financial Woes
Brenda Fassie, one of South Africa’s most iconic singers, captivated audiences with her music for over two decades. Known for her electrifying stage presence and hit songs, Brenda became a beloved figure in South Africa. Tragically, she passed away in 2004 at the age of 39 after a struggle with substance abuse. Her long-time producer, Sello “Chicco” Twala, revealed that Brenda earned over 30 million rands throughout her 21-year career but squandered it on drugs, lavish parties, and an extravagant lifestyle.
Brenda reportedly checked into rehabilitation centers over 30 times in attempts to overcome her addiction but was unable to make a permanent change. Her car repairs and love for luxury hotels drained her finances, leaving her with little to show for her immense success. In the end, her life serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that often accompany fame.
2. AKA: Talent Lost in Financial Distress
Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, known professionally as AKA, was a prominent South African rapper who experienced significant financial struggles despite his success. His financial woes became public knowledge after his 18,000 rand Rolex watch was repossessed due to an outstanding debt of 150,000 rands. Without new music releases to boost his income, AKA relied on performances and public appearances to make ends meet. However, as his popularity declined, so did his bookings, and he was forced to lower his living standards.
The tragedy deepened with the mysterious death of his girlfriend, Anele Tembe, who fell from a high-rise building in Cape Town. Her death, initially ruled a suicide, was questioned by her father, who suspected foul play. This tragic incident may have contributed to AKA’s refusal to visit Durban, Anele’s hometown, until he was offered a well-paying gig he could not refuse. Although he accepted the job, his financial and emotional struggles ultimately led to a turbulent end to his career.
3. ProKid (Linda Mkhize): A Rising Star Cut Short by Financial Strain
Linda Mkhize, better known as ProKid, was a highly talented South African rapper celebrated for his authenticity and lyrical prowess. At the height of his career, ProKid was one of the most booked artists in South Africa. However, his success did not translate into lasting financial stability.
After his untimely death in 2018, it was revealed that ProKid owed a substantial amount in medical bills, and his family struggled to afford a respectful burial. The Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture stepped in to help with funeral expenses, underscoring the stark contrast between his public persona and private struggles.
4. Mandoza: From Fame to Financial Hardship
Mandoza, a well-loved kwaito singer from Zola, Johannesburg, enjoyed a successful career with hit songs that resonated deeply with South African audiences. However, his life took a tragic turn when he was diagnosed with cancer, a battle that drained his finances.
Despite his fame, Mandoza struggled to support his wife and four children, and his medical bills quickly accumulated. Cancer robbed him of his vision, and his condition worsened, leaving him with significant debt, including over 398,000 rands owed to SARS (South African Revenue Service). When he passed away in 2016, Mandoza left behind a legacy of music but little financial security for his family.
5. Zahara: A Voice That Faced Financial Silence
Zahara, born Bulelwa Mkutukana, was the voice behind some of South Africa’s most cherished songs, including Loliwe and Umthwalo. Her musical success garnered her numerous awards and widespread fame. Yet, behind the scenes, Zahara was embroiled in a financial struggle that haunted her throughout her career.
Although she owned a house in Johannesburg and drove a Range Rover, both were bought on credit, and she eventually could no longer afford the payments. Zahara’s struggles escalated when her house was auctioned, and she publicly blamed her record label, TS Records, for her financial problems. Sadly, she passed away knowing she had lost her home, a devastating outcome for an artist of her caliber.
6. Baby Jake Matlala: Boxing Champion Brought Down by Illness
Jacob “Baby Jake” Matlala, a boxing legend from the Eastern Cape, was once a junior flyweight champion who earned large sums in dollars and gained international recognition. However, his fortunes dwindled over the years due to failed investments and health issues. By the time of his death in 2013, Baby Jake was deep in debt, suffering from pneumonia, and had even sold some of his prized possessions to make ends meet. His financial instability became apparent when he appeared on TV selling his boxing equipment. Although SABC offered him a commentator job that temporarily stabilized his situation, his declining health left him unable to sustain his finances, forcing him to sell his mansion without his wife’s knowledge. After his passing, his family was evicted, a tragic end to the life of a national hero.
7. Ray Phiri: King of Comedy in Financial Crisis
Ray Phiri, known as the king of South African comedy, made audiences laugh for years with his character “Velaphi” in the popular sitcom SABC1’s Velaphi. Unfortunately, after retiring in his 50s, Phiri struggled financially and lacked a stable income. Moving back to his hometown of Gugulethu, he experienced a decline in both his health and his finances, with little public support or assistance. Without the resources he needed, he spent his final years battling financial hardships, highlighting the often short-lived nature of fame in the entertainment industry.
Conclusion
The stories of these South African celebrities serve as cautionary tales about the volatility of fame and fortune. While each of them achieved success, the inability to secure lasting financial stability affected their lives and legacies. Their struggles underscore the need for better financial management and support systems in the entertainment industry, where the demands of stardom often overshadow practical financial planning.
Their stories are a reminder of how important it is for celebrities to plan for the future, ensuring that their talent, fame, and contributions can provide not only temporary wealth but also lasting security. These cautionary tales also highlight the importance of mental health and wellness, especially in industries where pressure, fame, and public scrutiny can become overwhelming.
