WeeklySA_AdminARTISTRY: Veteran actor Darlington Michaels cut his teeth in showbiz in the 1980s as a protégé of legendary playwright Gibson Kente…
By Phuti Mathobela
Renowned actor and performer of many TV and stage dramas, Darlington Michaels, passed away today. The Joburg-based actor died after a short illness at the age of 54.
Darlington, known to many in the SABC3 soapie Isidingo as Georgie ‘Papa G’ Zamdela, has touched many South African TV lovers and his fans with his death.
Darlington played the role of Papa G for many years, who spoke tsotsi taal and was loved and popular in the show. He joined the show in 1997. The sad news about his death was confirmed by the SABC on their social media pages.
“The SABC is deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary Darlington Michaels. His immense contribution to the entertainment industry will forever be remembered,” they said. They further said they extend their heartfelt condolences to the Michaels family, friends and fans.
In 2020, the actor played the role of Gap on Mzansi Magic’s new drama series, Vula Vala. This was after he disappeared from the small screens in 2016.
This was when the actor suffered a stroke, which forced him to take a break from work and focus on his health.
During that time, the actor said although he’d not fully recovered, he was getting there and happy to be back on the small screens in Vula Vala.
He started his career on stage under the tutelage of the father of theatre, Gibson Kente, in the 80s.
In 1984, the actor wrote and starred in a play titled Survival. It was about the apartheid prison system and how it treated black prisoners. Actor Spaces paid tribute to the fallen legend and said; “A true icon whose talent and legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of many.
“His immense contribution to the industry shaped South African television and left a profound impact on all who had the privilege to witness his artistry.” – www.fullview.co.za
