Nandi Nyembe Asks for Help But Says She Still Wants to Work
Veteran actress Nandi Nyembe opens up about health struggles and finances. She asks for work, not pity, after 50+ years in the industry
Alison Marsh
Wednesday, April 2, 2025
veteran actress Nandi Nyembe has been forced to ask for donations
Veteran South African actress Nandi Nyembe has opened up about her current health and financial problems. In a video shared on social media, the 74-year-old actress asked for public support but made it clear that she does not want handouts but she wants to work.
Nyembe is best known for her roles in shows like Soul City, Zone 14, Yizo Yizo, House of Zwide, and Adulting. She has been in the entertainment industry for over 50 years, starting her career when she was just 21 years old. Today, she is wheelchair-bound and struggling to pay for her medical bills and basic needs.
“It’s hard … this industry. Now I feel it, I really do feel it,” she said in a heartfelt video.
Nyembe explained that she spent around R88,000 on medical treatment for her son and now faces serious financial problems. Without a steady income or medical aid, she is finding it hard to cope.
“I now know how it feels to beg people for money. But I’m not that kind of person ... I can’t have people feeling pity for me because I believe I can do things myself. I don’t believe I need handouts,” she said.
She made it clear that more than anything, she wants acting opportunities.
“Maybe [help me with] groceries or something to get me by. However, more than anything, I’d like a script, and I’ll show you that my brain is not dead,” she said.
Nandi recently acted in the latest season of Adulting, shot while she was in a wheelchair. She proudly shared how she still gave her best during filming, spinning her chair and even whistling on set.
“Don’t think because I’m sitting on this wheelchair that it’s done with me. No!” she said with confidence.
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Nyembe also raised concerns about how some entertainers have received help from the government, while others like her have been left out. She questioned why support is selective in an industry that lacks long-term benefits like pensions or retirement plans.
Her video has touched many people online. While some offered support and shared sympathy, others raised questions about how entertainers handle their finances. One social media user said:
“They make lots of money that we the poor don’t even smell, but when life shows them flames, they come to us to donate... Why don’t they save money for times like this?”
Nyembe’s situation has started a bigger conversation about the entertainment industry, how it treats its veterans, and the need for better financial planning and support.
Despite the challenges, Nandi Nyembe remains hopeful and ready to act again.
“I need to work. If I’m sitting here, it’s not like my brain is dead. Give me a script and I’ll show you that this brain is so alive.”
