SA theatre legend dies
The renowned playwright, novelist, director, and actor passed away at the age of 92.
"It is a very sad day for South Africa," said Western Cape Cultural Affairs and Sports MEC Ricardo Mackenzie after it was announced that renowned theatre legend Athol Fugard had passed away.
According to numerous news sources, Fugard passed away at his house in Stellenbosch on Saturday evening at the age of 92.
"Athol Fugard was one of the country's greatest playwrights, who managed to capture the everyday stories of people in our country in every play," said Mackenzie.
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"He had a unique way of turning the pain of the past into a story of hope for the future. His contribution to the arts is immeasurable."
On Sunday, social media was flooded with tributes as South Africans came together to mourn the loss of an icon.
Fugard was best known as an actor, director, and playwright who used his art to challenge, scrutinise, and analyse South African society during apartheid.
The South African legend was best known by most for his novel 'Tsotsi,' which was later adapted into an Oscar-winning film.
His work also included: 'Master Harold and the Boys,' 'Sizwe Banzi Is Dead,' 'The Island,' 'Blood Knot,' 'Hello and Goodbye' and 'Boesman and Lena.'
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Legendary South African actor John Kani, who starred in several of Fugard's plays, also mourned the loss of a "friend."
"I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend Athol Fugard. May his soul rest in eternal peace," said Kani.
According to News24, Fugard is survived by his wife, Dr Paula Fourie, and the rest of their family.
He was born on 11 June 1932 in Middelburg, in the Karoo, as the son of an English father and an Afrikaans mother.
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