Luzuko Nteleko was loved by many and when the news got out that he had passed away, a wave of grief washed over social media.
Luzuko Nteleko dies: What’s the cause of death?
Nteleko’s passing came as unexpected to those who knew him. He was described as a humble and vibrant person who always filled the room with a magnetic energy.
On Monday evening, South Africa’s film industry was gutted when it was confirmed that the 36-year-old had passed away. While the cause of his death has yet to be revealed, Nteleko was always candid about his battles with brain cancer.
In a social media post he published in early 2020, Nteleko revealed how, thanks to his sister Nomsa, he had overcome the disease. Renowned celebrity microblogger Kgopolo Mphela also shared screenshots of his WhatsApp text exchange with the 36-year-old, where he credited Nomsa for his recovery.
Luzuko’s passing hits hard hey.
— Kgopolo ️ (@PhilMphela) June 21, 2021
He hit me up excited about his new role in Adze’s movie and so grateful at how the crew treated him on set as he was still recovering.
The way he spoke of his sister and how she was there for him made me tear up.
Oh bro pic.twitter.com/hsCW65dsRM
However, even a feat as great as beating cancer was not enough to grant Nteleko more time on earth.
SA film industry pays tribute to Nteleko
South Africans will remember Nteleko for his acclaimed roles in a number of TV productions, including Mamello, where he starred as high school teacher, Mr Tsotetsi.
He also had a stint in Isidingo, Zone 14 and numerous other high-profile soap dramas.
These were some of the tributes that were shared by his peers, soon after news of his untimely passing was announced:
How do we even begin Ndlovu …Dear God #RIPLuzukoNteleko
— Nomsa Liv Nteleko ✨ (@NNteleko) June 22, 2021
I remember how hard we laughed at these pictures of you. I don’t know why I kept them. Rest in peace. #RIPLuzukoNteleko pic.twitter.com/SJX67H0Is0
— Nthabi Tau (@NthabiTau) June 22, 2021
Yoooh King . I'm lost for words after such a great fight you pulled aaah mfe2. The forever generous great smiling lion ️ ️ ️ #RIPLuzukoNteleko pic.twitter.com/ecPYRLCsfm
— Wiseman Mncube (@wiseman_mncube) June 22, 2021
Actor Luzuko Nteleko has passed away.
— TV Mzansi (@TvMzansi) June 22, 2021
We will remember him for his enormous talent & contribution to the arts industry. He has acted in shows like Isidingo, Ambitions, Keeping Score, Ring of Lies, Mfolozi Street, Zone 14, to name a few. #RIPLuzukoNteleko pic.twitter.com/GEGWn1WiTo
Each day, we lose one. Each day. He has taken a special part of the art with him. Only a few will understand . Go well mntase . #RIPLuzukoNteleko pic.twitter.com/nuzX5M9bdq
— Thembisa Liyema Nxumalo (@tembisa) June 21, 2021