Oscar ‘Madluphuthu’ Mgudlwa last breath: Inside the tragic final hours of SA’s comedy giant

JOHANNESBURG – South Africa’s entertainment industry is reeling after the sudden death of beloved actor and comedian Oscar Mgudlwa, famously known as Madluphuthu. The 50-year-old legend passed away on Wednesday morning, 16 July, at a Rosettenville hospital following acute breathing complications, his family confirmed.

Cause of death: A short, mysterious illness

According to his brother Sipho Mgudlwa, the comic genius fell ill abruptly on Sunday:

“He complained about breathing complications… We didn’t expect his sudden death. It’s a great shock.”
Mgudlwa was rushed to a Johannesburg hospital where he died hours later. While the exact medical cause remains undisclosed, sources close to the family hint at a possible respiratory infection or chronic condition. Filmmaker Aaron Ngwasheng, who last saw him a month ago, lamented:
“We were planning a film – he was a brilliant script developer. I can’t believe he’s gone.”

Burial Plans: Royal Send-Off for a Chief

The Mgudlwa family revealed Madluphuthu was not just a comedian but a respected custodian of the AbaThembu Royal Lineage, holding the title of Chief. Family spokesperson Sipho stated:

“He carried his role with humility and dedication. Funeral arrangements will honour his royal status.”
Details remain pending, but a public memorial is expected in his hometown of Daveyton, Ekurhuleni.

Industry in mourning: “A giant of laughter has fallen”

Social media exploded with tributes:

• Zola Hashatsi (@zola_hashatsi):

“Totally heartbroken to announce the passing of our brother and friend Oscar Madluphuthu Mgudlwa. Thank you for your talents and contribution to the industry. Rest well, my brother, we had too much fun.”

• Isitha: The Enemy (@IsithaTheEnemy):
  “We are deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary thespian … We are grateful for the joy, laughter and depth he brought to our screens and to all who knew him.”
• Karabo Sekati (@KaraboSekati_):
  “South Africa has lost a pioneer. His legacy lives in every smile he gave us.”

Legacy: The man behind the 3D glasses

Mgudlwa shot to fame in the early 2000s with the cult ‘Madluphuthu‘ film series – low-budget DVDs sold for R50 that became township staples. His raw, unscripted humor (see his career highlights) celebrated kasi life, resonating with marginalised audiences.

He has appeared on a number of South Africa’s top TV productions, including e.tv’s ‘The Black Door‘, where he once again showcased his versatility and depth as an actor. Among the standout moments of his career was his on-screen chemistry with the late Winnie Khumalo, who played his mother.

Beyond comedy, he:

• Mentored young actors on eTV’s Isitha: The Enemy and The Black Door.
• Penned scripts and contributed to Kwaito music in the 90s.
• Became a symbol of resilience, famously saying: “Laughter is healing for the voiceless.”

Unfinished dreams

Close friend Sunnyboy Ndlovu vowed to complete their joint film project:

“I’ll finish it for him – but no one can replace Madluphuthu.”
The comedian leaves behind four children and a nation grappling with the silence where his laughter once rang.

Tributes pour in

• Sarel Lee (@sarel_lee): “Your glasses made us see joy in darkness.”
• Lindo Myeni: “Legend of TV comedy – your impact is forever.”
• Credible Chippa: “Thanks for making us laugh all those years.”

NOWinSA sends condolences to Mgudlwa’s family and friends. As we await funeral updates, his words ring true: “In every township struggle, there’s a joke waiting to set us free.”

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