Mpho Sebeng, the late actor celebrated for his iconic role in “Ingoma,” had initially received a major delayed honour with a nomination for Best Film Actor at the 11th Simon ‘Mabhunu’ Sabela Awards. However, this recognition has been rescinded by the awards committee due to an eligibility oversight.
Sebeng’s nomination stemmed from his powerful portrayal of a schoolteacher in “Ingoma,” who shares his tumultuous life story with his students, encompassing themes of betrayal, financial hardship, and a descent into the drug trade before finding success.
Adding to his recent accomplishments, it was announced a few days ago that Sebeng starred in the new Showmax drama series, “106FM,” playing the lead role of DJ Whiskey. The series follows DJ Whiskey and DJ Tsietsi as they team up to save their radio station from closure. “106FM” is set to stream on June 26.
Despite these achievements, the Simon Mabhunu Sabela KZN Film & Television Awards released a statement on June 18, 2024, announcing the retraction of Sebeng’s nomination. The oversight was attributed to Sebeng not meeting the residency requirement for KwaZulu-Natal. The statement clarified that this error does not materially affect the list of nominees, as there will now be three nominees in the category instead of four.
The statement from the judging panel and auditor read:
“Durban, 18 June 2024. The judging panel/auditor regrets to announce that there was an oversight in the category of Best Actor for Film or Television. It has been brought to our attention that one of the nominees, Mpho Sebeng, (may his soul rest in peace) was not a resident in KwaZulu-Natal. It is for this reason that his name has been removed from the top four nominees. While this oversight is regrettable, there is no material difference to the list of nominees in this category as there were already four actors nominated. There will now be only three nominees. Thank you. Issued by the KZN Tourism and Film Authority on behalf of Simon Mabhunu Sabela KZN Film and Television Awards Judging Panel and Auditor.”
Mpho Sebeng’s legacy continues to inspire, despite the administrative error. His performances in “Ingoma” and “106FM” remain a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft.
STATEMENT:
The Simon Mabhunu Sabela KZN Film & Television Awards has rescinded the nomination of the late Mpho Sebeng for this year’s iteration.
The organisation has cited “an oversight” as the reason and have assured everyone that the removal of the actor “has no material… https://t.co/G8LXtYGT5U pic.twitter.com/H6yhOkogzd
— Kgopolo (@PhilMphela) June 18, 2024
