- The SAFTAs honoured late veteran actor Mfana Jones Hlophe on Wednesday, 14 October 2026, just days after his death
- Hlophe, who was 55, passed away on 7 October after collapsing at home and being rushed to Charlotte Maxeke Hospital
- The tribute reignited an outpouring of grief from fans who remembered him fondly for his roles on screen
Source: Instagram
The South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) paused to honour veteran actor Mfana Jones Hlophe on Wednesday, 14 October 2026, giving the industry and fans a moment to reflect on the extraordinary legacy he left behind. The tribute came just one week after his sudden passing, which sent shockwaves through the local entertainment community.
Hlophe died on Wednesday, 7 October 2026, at the age of 55. The SAFTAs tribute, shared a week after his death, brought his body of work back into focus, reminding fans of the depth and warmth he brought to every role he touched.
Mfana Jones Hlophe's battle with diabetes
The actor had struggled with health complications linked to Type 1 Diabetes for years, though this has not yet been officially confirmed as the cause of his death. Despite his illness, Hlophe remained a dedicated and beloved figure in South African film and television throughout his career.
According to The Citizen, his partner returned home that evening to find him in a bad condition and attempted to stabilise his sugar levels by giving him Coca-Cola, but the intervention did not help. The two made their way to Charlotte Maxeke Hospital in Johannesburg by e-hailing vehicle, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. It is believed he passed away en route to the hospital.
Mzansi reacts to the tribute
Fans flooded the comments with heartfelt messages as the weight of the loss sank in again.
The reaction to the SAFTA tribute made it clear that Hlophe's impact went far beyond the screen. His role as Smomoza on My Loving was mentioned repeatedly by fans who grew up watching him, and for many, seeing the tribute was both a comfort and a reminder of just how much South African television has lost.
Here is what some had to say:
@nalediboltina: "Ahhh noooo"
@zola_hashatsi: "This is really painful, fam"
@enhlenxasondlovu: "Hawu uSmomoza ka My Loving 💕"
@londie_k: "Oh no😢"
@khubaps: "Not Smomoza bakithi ☹️💔"
@nyikonkuna87: "Ah maaaan 💔"
Source: Instagram
Mfana Jones Hlophe's memorial service
In a previous report from Briefly News, the memorial service for legendary Generations: The Legacy actor Mfana Jones Hlophe, who recently passed away, has been announced by his family.
Source: Briefly News