'South Africa's greatest playwright' Athol Fugard has passed away at 92
Home EntertainmentCelebs ‘South Africa’s greatest playwright’ Athol Fugard has passed away at 92

‘South Africa’s greatest playwright’ Athol Fugard has passed away at 92

written by Woman and Home Team March 9, 2025
‘South Africa’s greatest playwright’ Athol Fugard has passed away at 92

Athol Fugard, South Africa’s celebrated playwright, died at age 92 on Saturday.

The acclaimed novelist, actor, and director, who was named the greatest active playwright in the English-speaking world by Time magazine in 1989,  passed away at his Stellenbosch home after a long illness, TimesLive reports.

Fugard’s works boldly addressed apartheid’s injustices. His plays, including The Road to Mecca (1954), Blood Knot (1961) and Master Harold and the Boys (1982) gained international recognition. His novel, Tsotsi (1980),  became an Oscar-winning film.

Fugard’s accolades include a Tony Award for lifetime achievement. He also received the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver.

ALSO SEE: That Boy Has No Shoes – A haunting theatrical retelling of Apartheid’s legacy

Born in the Eastern Cape, Fugard grew up in poverty. His mother supported the family by running a boarding house and tea room. These settings inspired his storytelling.

Fugard’s sharp wit and political awareness shone through his art. The late playwright faced government harassment during apartheid. His plays were banned, and his passport was revoked. Yet he persisted in producing politically powerful works that left a mark on South Africa.

Image / Getty / Dan Callister / Online USA inc

Tributes pour in for the legendary South African playwright

Tributes celebrating the renowned Athol Fugard have poured in on social media, following the news of the playwright and poet’s death.

“It is a very sad day for South Africa. Athol Fugard was one of the country’s greatest playwrights, who managed to capture everyday stories of people in our country in every play,” Western Cape Cultural Affairs and Sports MEC Ricardo Mackenzie said in tribute.

Actor John Kani, a frequent collaborator, paid tribute. “I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend Athol Fugard. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” he said.

“South Africa has lost a literary giant. Athol Fugard’s sharp wit and deep understanding of our country’s story have left a lasting mark on our cultural heritage. His work challenged, inspired, and reflected the heart of our nation. He will be deeply missed,” writes Western Cape Premier Alan Winde.

Fugard is survived by his wife, Paula Fourie, and their family. His voice remains a beacon in South African theatre.

ALSO SEE:

SA actress Crystal-Donna Roberts has passed away following breast cancer battle

Feature Image: Getty 

0 comment
0
Facebook Twitter Google + Pinterest
Avatar

Teamwork makes the dream work. This byline is used when more than one team member compiled a piece.

Send this to a friend