Veteran actress Nandi Nyembe opens up about financial struggles

Veteran actress Nandi Nyembe has made headlines after candidly discussing her financial difficulties, shedding light on the harsh realities of the South African acting industry.

Her honesty has reignited debates about poor compensation for actors, with many questioning whether the entertainment sector adequately supports its performers—especially those who have dedicated decades to their craft.

The Unpredictable Nature of Acting

The South African acting industry is notoriously unpredictable, with jobs often scarce and financial security uncertain. Despite a successful career spanning over 53 years, Nyembe is now facing serious financial and health struggles.

She has appeared in numerous hit TV shows, including Zone 14, Soul City, and Isibaya, yet she still finds herself in a precarious financial situation.

Veteran actress Nandi Nyembe

Actors across the industry have long raised concerns about the lack of retirement funds, provident funds, and unpaid reruns of past work, which often leave them without financial stability in their later years.

A Call for Equal Opportunities

Nyembe has emphasized that she is not looking for handouts but rather equal opportunities to support herself.

A recent video shared by entertainment commentator Nozipho Mashaba on X (formerly Twitter) shows Nyembe speaking about her reluctance to ask for help, as she prefers to be independent.

In the video, she is seen receiving groceries from well-wishers who visited her home. While she appreciates the support, she reiterated her desire to work rather than rely on charity.

“I may be wheelchair-bound, but my brain is not dead.”

“Give me a script, and I’ll show you that this brain is so alive,” she declared confidently.

This statement resonated with many, as it highlighted the ageism and discrimination that older actors often face, despite their vast experience and talent.

Health Struggles and Financial Hardships

According to reports, Nyembe has exhausted her savings while taking care of her sick son, further worsening her financial situation.

Although she currently stars in the Showmax drama series Adulting, it seems that her earnings are not enough to sustain her medical and daily expenses.

Her case has once again sparked conversations about whether the Department of Arts and Culture should step in to provide better financial support for actors.

Public Reaction and Support for Nyembe

After the video surfaced, many South Africans rallied behind Nyembe, expressing sympathy and a willingness to donate money to help her during this difficult time.

Some social media users shared their thoughts:

• @Amanda_pta: “This is the sad story I’m willing to donate.”

• @SpencerNdlovu15: “The old lady carried the industry; time for @GaytonMcK to carry her.”

• @FireMore123214: “Donation, good citizens, let’s help her. We have helped Brenda Ngxoli recently; now it’s time to help her.”

A Broader Industry Issue

Nyembe is not the first South African actor to publicly speak out about financial struggles.

Over the years, several well-known entertainers—including Vusi Thanda, Dr. Malinga, Lusanda Mcinga, Carlo Radebe, and Brenda Ngxoli—have also turned to the public for financial assistance.

Their stories expose the deep-rooted issues within the entertainment industry, where even successful and celebrated actors can struggle financially due to poor financial planning, lack of long-term contracts, and inadequate industry protections.

A Wake-Up Call for the Industry

Nyembe’s story serves as a wake-up call to the industry and government institutions that oversee the arts and entertainment sector.

Many are now demanding structural changes, including:

• Mandatory retirement or provident funds for actors.

• Royalty payments for reruns of TV shows and films.

• Better contractual agreements for long-term financial security.

• Increased support from the Department of Arts and Culture.

Looking Ahead

As the conversation continues, many hope that Nandi Nyembe’s transparency will lead to meaningful change in the industry.

For now, South Africans have shown their generosity and compassion, proving that no legend should be left behind. But the real question remains: When will the industry finally start taking care of its own?