Gayton McKenzie slammed after Nandi Nyembe’s death
Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie is under fire once again, this time over claims that he failed veteran actress Nandi Nyembe while she was still alive.
Nyembe, best known for her iconic roles in Zone 14 and Yizo Yizo, passed away on Saturday, 23 August 2025, at the age of 75 following health complications.
Shortly after news of her death broke, McKenzie paid tribute on social media, calling her a “treasured icon.”
But instead of sympathy, his message sparked outrage. Many South Africans accused him and his department of abandoning the actress when she needed help most.
One user wrote: “Just a few months ago, she had to go on social media to beg for assistance to be able to pay her medical bills. Something that should never have happened had your department cared enough to protect actors by ensuring bargaining rights and copyrights to their work.”
Back in April, Nyembe publicly appealed for financial assistance as she battled health issues.
While McKenzie reportedly donated R20,000 and promised ongoing support, the actress later told Sunday World that no follow-up ever came.
“Nobody has called or said anything to me; I am in the dark. I have already lost faith in politicians because the ANC said the same thing not so long ago, promising to assist me,” she revealed.
As tributes continue to pour in for Nyembe, many social media users are blasting McKenzie for what they see as performative sympathy.
Comments included: “Has there ever been a greater clout chaser like this clown? Everything that trends, he gets himself involved and promises people things, but when it’s time to deliver, he hides his gap and keeps quiet,” and “Performative care is what you specialise in, you charlatan.”
