Bio
Joe Mafela (born 1942, died 18 March 2017) was a South African actor and musician best known for his role as S'dumo in the Zulu language television sitcom 'Sgudi 'Snaysi, from 1986-1992.
Born in Limpopo in 1942, Mafela was a prolific actor with over 40 years experience in the entertainment industry.
In 1986 he landed the role of S’dumo in the Zulu comedy 'Sgudi 'Snaysi’. Joe also worked as a creative producer for Penguin Films, which he co-owned.
He featured in numerous television productions such as Madam & Eve, Going Up, 'Sgudi 'Snaysi and Khululeka.
His film credits include Zulu, Tokoloshe, Shout at the Devil, Game for Vultures, Escape from Angola, Freedom Fighters, Red Scorpion and Tigers Don’t Cry.
In addition, Joe produced musicals such as Mzunba, Sangoma, Syagida and the Gold Reef City Dancers.
In 2004, he was awarded a Duka Duka Award for his services to the television industry and the following year at the Naledi Awards he was given a Theatre Management Lifetime Achievement Award.
Mafela also had a starring role as kit manager Pule in the e.tv soccer drama series Shooting Stars, from 2007-2010.
Joe died in a car accident on Saturday, 18 March 2017. At the time he was playing Tebogo Moroka on SABC1 soapie Genertions: The Legacy.