South Africa mourns the loss of one of its most cherished television icons, Don Mlangeni Nawa, who passed away on April 16, 2025, at the age of 65. Renowned for his portrayal of Zebedee “Bra Zeb” Matabane in the long-running soap opera Isidingo, Nawa’s career spanned over three decades, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s entertainment landscape.
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Don Mlangeni Nawa’s Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on June 7, 1959, in Boksburg, Transvaal (now Gauteng), Don Mlangeni Eric Nawa began his artistic journey in the theater, honing his craft on stage before transitioning to television. His first notable TV role came in 1989 when he played David in the Zulu mini-series Ubambo Lwami. This performance paved the way for subsequent roles, including Zakhe in Hlala Kwabafileyo (1992) and Laqhasha in the beloved sitcom ‘Sgudi ‘Snaysi, where he starred alongside the late Joe Mafela.
Rise to Stardom: The Role of Zeb Matabane
In 1998, Nawa’s career reached new heights when he was cast as Zebedee Matabane in Isidingo. As the patriarch of the Matabane family, Bra Zeb became a household name, embodying the complexities of a traditional yet progressive father navigating the challenges of post-apartheid South Africa. His portrayal earned him the SAFTA Golden Horn Award for Best Actor in a TV Soap in 2006.
However, his tenure on Isidingo was not without controversy. In 2014, Nawa departed the show following a dispute over product endorsements written into the script, which he felt were exploitative. Despite the circumstances, his contribution to the series remains a significant part of its legacy.
Continued Success in Television
After Isidingo, Nawa continued to captivate audiences with roles in various television series. In 2018, he starred as Prince Moseki Kwena in The Throne, a telenovela centered around royal family dynamics. That same year, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Royalty Soapie Awards, recognizing his enduring impact on South African television. IOL | News that Connects South Africans+2Wikipedia+2wikisouthafrica.co.za+2
In 2019, Nawa made his film debut in Losing Lerato, portraying a SWAT Commander. He then joined the cast of Legacy in 2020, playing John, the company’s longest-serving employee. From 2021 to 2023, he starred in The Estate as Shadrack Mokobane, an activist defending his community’s interests. His final screen appearance was in the 2024 Netflix drama Soon Comes Night, where he played Mandla Shabane.
Personal Life and Legacy
Don Mlangeni Nawa was married to Regina Nawa and was a father to five children. Known for his professionalism and dedication, he was respected by colleagues and fans alike. His passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from the entertainment industry and the public, celebrating his contributions to South African culture.
Nawa’s legacy is characterized by his ability to bring authenticity and depth to his roles, reflecting the diverse experiences of South Africans. His performances not only entertained but also provided commentary on societal issues, making him a beloved figure in the nation’s storytelling tradition.
Conclusion
Don Mlangeni Nawa’s passing marks the end of an era in South African television. His extensive body of work and the characters he brought to life have left a lasting impression on audiences. As the nation reflects on his life and career, his contributions to the arts will continue to inspire future generations of actors and storytellers.
