Veteran South African Actor Honoured in Polokwane Following Memorial Services
Veteran South African actor Seputla Sebogodi is being laid to rest in Polokwane on Saturday, bringing an emotional farewell to one of the country’s most respected performers.
The funeral follows two memorial services held earlier this week, where family, friends, colleagues and fans gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of the award-winning actor, who died at the age of 63 after complications related to diabetes.
Sebogodi passed away on the evening of July 15, leaving behind a remarkable career that spanned television, film and theatre.
Final Farewell in Polokwane
The official funeral service is taking place at the Jack Botes Hall in Polokwane before the actor is laid to rest at Silicon Cemetery.
His burial follows a memorial service at the South African State Theatre in Pretoria on July 23 and another tribute held at Jack Botes Hall on Friday, where mourners gathered to honour his contribution to the entertainment industry.
Messages of condolence have continued to pour in from fellow actors, public figures and supporters, many describing Sebogodi as a talented performer whose work inspired generations of South Africans.
Celebrated Career Across Television and Theatre
Sebogodi earned widespread recognition for his portrayal of Kenneth Mashaba in the popular television drama Generations.
Throughout his distinguished career, he also appeared in productions such as Suburban Bliss, Bophelo ke Semphego, Redemption and Scandal!, earning praise for his versatility and commanding performances.
Beyond television, he was a respected figure in South African theatre, taking on memorable roles in acclaimed productions including Big Dada, Waiting for Godot, The Rivonia Trial, Once a Pirate and Mooi Street Moves.
His contributions to the performing arts made him one of the country’s most admired actors.
Burial Dispute Draws Public Attention
As funeral arrangements unfolded, reports emerged of a disagreement over Sebogodi’s final resting place.
According to reports, the actor’s family and his widow, Machuene Rosina Semenya, whom he married in February 2026, held differing views on where he should be buried.
Semenya reportedly wanted her husband laid to rest at Silicon Cemetery in Polokwane, while other family members preferred that he be buried alongside his ancestors in keeping with family traditions.
The reported dispute has generated discussion on social media, with many South Africans urging both sides to resolve the matter peacefully while respecting the actor’s memory.
Remembering a Lasting Legacy
Following Sebogodi’s passing, his family appealed for privacy as they mourned their loss.
As loved ones gather for his funeral, many are reflecting on the lasting impact he made through decades of storytelling on stage and screen.
His performances entertained millions of viewers and helped shape South Africa’s television and theatre industries, ensuring his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of performers.
