Legendary Isidingo Actor Mlangeni Nawa ‘Bra Zeb’ Has Died

With a career spanning more than thirty years, Nawa established himself as one of South Africa’s most respected performers. His remarkable ability to bring complex characters to life earned him both critical acclaim and a special place in the hearts of viewers nationwide.

From Stage to Screen Stardom

Nawa first honed his craft in theater before making a successful transition to television and film. His breakthrough came in the early 1990s with the Zulu-language movie Ubambo Lwami, where he played the lead role of David. However, it was his performance as the wise and compassionate “Bra Zeb” in Isidingo that truly made him a household name.

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Throughout his distinguished career, Nawa delivered memorable performances in several major productions, including:

• Moseki in The Throne
• Thato Mokeona in The River
• Shadrack Mokobane in The Estate
• Dlomo in Uzalo
• Langa in Shaka Ilembe

Family Announces the Sad News

Nawa’s family shared the news of his passing through an emotional Instagram post on April 16, 2025. While the cause of death wasn’t disclosed, the statement highlighted Nawa’s profound impact both professionally and personally.

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“He was the foundation of our family—a devoted father, caring brother, and loyal friend. To his fans, he was a gifted artist whose performances brought light and meaning to countless lives. His extraordinary legacy will continue through the characters he created and the lives he influenced.”