It has been nearly a week following the passing of South African veteran actress Frances ‘Gogo’ Ndlaziwana, and already family and friends close to the star have been experiencing the effects of her absence.
The 89-year-year old who was popular for her roles in several South African productions such as the mini-series, After Nine, Etv’s Four Play: Sex Tips for Girls as well as a brief appearance in the drama soapie Scandal.
Her passing was announced by her grandchild Mbulelo who revealed that she passed away on 28th February at approximately 8 pm while all her family were in attendance.
In a recent interview with news and entertainment publication Daily Sun, her grandson Mbulelo Ndlazilwana reflected on the legacy that his grandmother left behind – promising that he will soon follow in her footsteps.
“I’ve learned a lot from my grandmother. She taught me to be a giver. She also taught me to love and gave me my biggest gift by teaching and grooming me to be a professional actor from the age of 9,” he said.
Mbulelo who is a prominent figure in the entertainment industry himself, explained that the family suffered a big blow to discover the passing. He later added that some of the biggest things that he will miss about her are her personality traits and the fact that she cared for all who came across her path.
“We’ll miss her presence, her jokes, and her witty sarcasm. There are many things to remember her for, and it can’t be one thing. It’s the fact that nobody ever stayed hungry when she was around. She made sure everybody ate.”
The former Generations and Scandal actor told the publication that her humanitarian efforts are something he would like to implement in his own life – which is why he has decided to one day open a foundation in honour of “Gogo” as she was affectionately known.
“I’d love people to keep her spirit alive by instilling a strong sense of community in each other and continue to build, support and love one another. Most of all, to give to the less fortunate,” he said.
Meanwhile, he appealed to the Department of Arts and Culture and the public to help with this venture.
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