Former Skeem Saam Actress Sibusisiwe Gugu Mangele Dies at 35

South African actress Sibusisiwe Gugu Mangele has died at the age of 35 after spending more than a week in hospital while receiving treatment for a cardiac condition, according to a statement released by her family.

Entertainment journalist and writer Phuti Mathobela shared the news in an Instagram post on Friday, October 23, 2026. According to the family, Mangele passed away on Thursday, October 22, following her hospitalisation.

Her death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from viewers and members of South Africa’s entertainment industry, where she was recognised for her television work.

Mangele appeared in popular local productions, including Skeem Saam and Umkhokha: The Curse, which introduced her to audiences across the country. Her performances formed part of her contribution to South African television.

Mathobela, a multimedia storyteller who has covered the entertainment industry for publications such as Daily Sun and City Press, relayed the family’s announcement through social media.

The statement explained that Mangele had spent more than a week in hospital receiving treatment for a cardiac condition. However, the family did not provide further details about her medical treatment or the circumstances surrounding her hospitalisation.

Her passing at the age of 35 has renewed attention on her career and the roles through which audiences came to know her.

Skeem Saam, a long-running South African television drama, has introduced viewers to numerous local performers, while Umkhokha: The Curse has attracted audiences through storylines exploring family relationships, faith and conflict.

At the time of the announcement, the family had not publicly shared details about funeral or memorial arrangements.

Mangele’s death is a loss to her loved ones, colleagues and the viewers who followed her work. Although her career was cut short, her appearances in recognised South African television productions remain part of her legacy in the entertainment industry.

https://www.instagram.com/p/De2dOLukXX2/?srtk=MXE3d243OHdrcnE5bA==