Family, friends and fans of the late actor Tim Mahlubandile Kwebulana gathered for a memorial service at the Johnson Ngwevela Hall on Thursday September 26 to celebrate his life.

Kwebulana passed away at his Langa home on Thursday September 19 after a prolonged illness.

A seasoned actor, Kwebulana starred in productions such as Aba kwazidenge, Ingqumbo Yeminyanya, Unyana Womntu, Uthando Lwethu, Shooting Stars, Forced Love and Isikizi.

His family said he was well-known and loved by everyone who knew him. He was described as a true celebrity who loved people.

His son Mahlubandile Kwebulana was the programme director for the evening and Sizwe Msutu said the opening prayer.

Mahlubandile said losing his father was a huge blow as he had also lost his mother recently. He urged his siblings to remain united and continue with the values their father had taught them.

Multiple speakers then took to the stage to share their memories of Bra Tim, as he was affectionately known in the industry, including film and television producer and director, Roberta Durrant; producer Ntombesizwe Tena; and director Mandilakhe Yengwa.

Among those in attendance were actress Thoko Ntshinga, actress and afro-jazz artist Linomtha and some politicians.

In his opening remarks, Mahlubandile said his father had a love for everyone. “He was the true definition of a celebrity. He was a comedian. His work ethic was evident in his work. He spoke out, he had no filter. If something was wrong, it was wrong and there was no sugar-coating it,” he said.

He said Bra Tim served the country well.

Durrant described Kwebulana’s death as a tremendous loss to all.

“He was a brilliant actor and comedian. He was a kind person who was always concerned about other actors. He cared about others. He was close to my life. It is painful to lose someone so dear. But we thank God for the privilege to have had him in our lives,” she said.

Her words were echoed by producer Mandilakhe Yengwa who said Bra Tim mentored him to be what he is today. “He was always eager to perform. He could do anything. Bra Tim was a mentor to young directors and producers like me.”

Tena described him as a teacher. “He was not scared to speak out the truth. He was everything to me, a father but mostly a teacher,” she said.

The veteran actor was laid to rest on Saturday September 28.

Mahlubandile Kwebulana urged his siblings to stay united even after their father’s passing.

Film and television producer and director, Roberta Durrant, at the mic, and director Mandilakhe Yengwa, at back, were among those who spoke at the memorial service for the late Langa actor, Tim Kwebulana.

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Family and friends pay tribute to Tim Kwebulana