Somizi Mhlongo mourns the death of the late legend Mbongeni Ngema who died in a car accident on Wednesday evening. The multi-talented star passed away at age 68.

Taking to social media, Som narrated how Mbongeni opened the industry for him at the age of 12.

“Ok. Now. This one hits the hardest. My master is gone. The man behind the reason I’m multi-talented. The man behind the reason I’m always punctual, disciplined, professional, dedicated, passionate, and my work ethic. The man who discovered me at age 12 and took a risk. The man who gave me my first role as dance captain and later co-choreographer for Sarafina the stage and movie production at age 17. My father. Yo voice keeps ringing in my head when he called me each time he wud start by saying MHLONGO YOU A STAR then carry on speaking. And that was the case on Tuesday when u called to ask me to be a part of yo production next month as a creative director,” Somizi wrote.

In a new deleted post, the radio personality shared a screenshot of the text received from the legend.

“This text was sent on the very same Tuesday and something felt like u were saying goodbye but in my head and heart I was like I’m glad ur smelling yo flowers. Which has been my main aim to always make sure that u know that u are the reason I AM THEE SOMIZI. And I made sure that I tell u and show u each time,” he added.

“Lala Madlokovu. I’m shattered but I’m also smiling coz I know deep down in my heart that we used our time together fully on this earth.”

In other news – Tributes pour in for Mbongeni Ngema

Industry colleagues, friends and fans took to social media on Wednesday night to pay tribute to the late playwright Mbongeni Ngema.

The 68-year-old, who was also a musician, composer and choreographer, died in a head-on collision on Wednesday evening while returning from a funeral in Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape. A statement shared by the family confirmed the news. Read More