Filmmaker and producer Teboho Moseling Mahlatsi has died.
News of his passing was confirmed by comedian David Kau on Monday afternoon.
“It is with the saddest regret that we announce the untimely passing of Filmmaker & Producer - Teboho Moseling Mahlatsi, on the 3rd of July 2023,” shared Kau on behalf of the Mahlatsi family.
“In lieu of personal condolences, the family kindly requests prayers & that they be given privacy to mourn and come to terms with the tragic loss.”
ON BEHALF OF THE MAHLATSI FAMILY
— DavidKau (@davidkau1) July 3, 2023
It is with the saddest regret that we announce the untimely passing of Filmmaker & Producer - Teboho Moseling Mahlatsi, on the 3rd of July 2023.
In lieu of personal condolences, the family kindly requests prayers & that they be given privacy to… pic.twitter.com/vMQWbemGGk
Mahlatsi is best known for producing and directing the 90s television series “Yizo Yizo” which recently started streaming on Netflix.
Mahlatsi, Peter Esterhuysen, Harriet Perlman, Mtutuzeli Matshoba and Angus Gibson are behind “Yizo Yizo” which launched the careers of several Mzansi actors.
He was also co-director at Bomb Productions which is behind “Shaka iLembe,” “Isibaya”, “Ayeye.”
The production company penned an emotional tribute to the storyteller, touching on their 27-year journey together.
“A lunch with 3 people that shared a vision for telling REAL South African stories that turned into a 27-year journey of creating magic together, creating work for thousands of people, opening doors, building careers.”
The tribute went on to share fond memories of how Mahlatsi would gently give notes to actors or the crew following a rehearsal and how he would fight for junior members to be seen.
Not only did they pay tribute to his profession, but also his love for his children and family.
“There are so many memories we share of you with hundreds of actors, crew, post-prod, clients and colleagues.
“Your legacy is huge and deep and beautiful. You sent a message to young black South Africans ‘Your dreams of being a world-class director are valid. No matter where you come from’. Your memory will live on consciously and unconsciously in SA film for decades to come.”
I'm at a loss for words. My Friend is gone. 💔💔 Producer, Writer, Director extraordinaire! Teboho Mahlatsi we were only 16 and 21 when we met at Carleton Center in 1996. What a journey you've had, what impact you've made. To the Mahlatsi family, I send my heart. @TebogoMalope pic.twitter.com/oa8dvJjwAP
— Khanyi Magubane (@Khanyi_Magubane) July 3, 2023
Teboho Mahlatsi’s passing has left me stunned🥺. What a loss💔. I was fresh out of drama school when Teboho, Thabang and Angus took a meeting with me; just to talk. Ask questions. Get advice. This was when Bomb was still in Marlboro. I’ll never forget that.
— Thembisa Liyema Nxumalo (@tembisa) July 3, 2023
Rest easy, Teboho💔.
One generally has a wishlist of people they'd love to work with. People they place on a pedestal and those they hold in high regard. Teboho Mahlatsi was one of the visionaries I would have loved to have the honour of working with. Condolences to all his loved ones. What a loss💔
Our last on-air catch up we spoke about so much; Bomb’s undeniable legacy, your ability to tell authentic stories and the mammoth task that lay ahead as you embarked on the journey to tell the greatest South African story ever told, Shaka! Teboho Mahlatsi, A Visionary. 🕊️🕊️ pic.twitter.com/u1FVYDxZWH
— Bridget Masinga (@BridgetMasinga) July 3, 2023
RIP: ‘Shaka ILembe’ and ‘Yizo Yizo’ co-creator Teboho Mahlatsi.
— Siphiwe Mhlambi (@sphiwemhlambi) July 3, 2023
Your Legacy will live on forever! 💔🕯️ pic.twitter.com/0VX0Nn3twV
We are deeply saddened by the passing of this pioneer.
Teboho Mahlatsi, a writer, director and producer.
Most known for directing the renowned Yizo Yizo and contributing to shows like Isibaya, Ayeye, and Shaka iLembe.
May his soul find eternal peace 🕯️🕊️ pic.twitter.com/jmNwk4sdDJ