Beloved South African actor Joe Mafela died this weekend aged 75.
According to sources, Mafela succumbed to injuries sustained by a car accident in the early hours of Saturday morning in Johannesburg.
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He was a mainstay in South Africa’s film and music scene in the 1990s, with his 1996 track Shebeleza earmarked as the African Cup of Nations theme track — a tournament Bafana Bafana won. And while Mafela was known most recently for his role in soapy Generations, there’s one particular clip you might remember him for.
Currently trending on YouTube is a Chicken Licken advertisement from 1996. Yes, back when a whole chicken cost just R21, and “It’s good, good, good, it’s good it’s nice” was the country’s most favourite jingle.
Joe Mafela was undoubtedly the star of this little advertisement.
The video was posted by YouTuber Michael dos Santos, who seems to have a knack for publishing old SA advertisements. Remarkably, the above video was posted well over a year ago.
Then there’s this gem…
Twitter also paid its respects to Mafela this weekend, as the hashtag #RIPJoeMafela flooded the social network with condolences and memories.
Joe Mafela was probably best known for his recent role in Generations, his hit track Shebeleza and his hilarious Chicken Licken ads
The SA govt led with this tweet.
We would like to extend our deepest condolences on the death of legendary actor Joe Mafela. Ulale ngoxolo tata.. #RIPJoe pic.twitter.com/Imv56G4ZKP
— South African Gov (@GovernmentZA) March 19, 2017
“We wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to Mafela Family and May his soul rest in peace,” wrote SA president Jacob Zuma.
“We wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to Mafela Family and May his soul rest in peace,” said President Zuma #RIPJoeMafela
— South African Gov (@GovernmentZA) March 19, 2017
A number of South African personalities added their messages, including the EFF.
Rest in Revolutionary Peace Joe ‘Sdumo’ Mafela! Your Legacy Lives on! #RIPJoeMafela
Full Statement: https://t.co/bocdZy3kQH pic.twitter.com/sXPudgrITY
— EFF Official Account (@EFFSouthAfrica) March 19, 2017
The legend of my childhood #RIPJoeMafela pic.twitter.com/8lEccmd0T9
— @K.Z ALI (ENTERTAIN) (@ali09310405) March 19, 2017
Exactly 3yrs ago at the @SAFTAS1 I had an opportunity to dance with legends. A moment I’ll cherish forever. #RIPJoeMafela pic.twitter.com/u69AtJv3Go
— Terry Pheto (@TerryPheto) March 19, 2017
Joe Mafela is survived by his wife and four children.
