South Africa woke up to the sad news of the passing of actor Dumi Masilela of e.tv soap Rhythm City.
In an official statement, e.tv confirmed the devastating news.
“He passed in a hijacking on Wednesday 2 August. Dumi played the role of Sifiso on Rhythm City for the past 5 years. e.tv sends their condolences to Dumi’s family, friends and Rhythm City colleagues.”
Masilela recently married his long term beau former Muvhango actress Simphiwe Ngema.
Before pursuing acting, Masilela was a professional soccer player who played for Supersport United and Highlands Park, but his career came to a to a halt following a car accident.
Masilela’s death has sent shock waves across the country.
Tributes started pouring for the slain actor:
"We send our sincere condolences to Dumi Masilela's wife Simphiwe Ngema, his family, friends & colleagues. You are in our thoughts & prayers." tweeted Minister of Arts of Culture, Nathi Mthethwa.
Death be not proud. Rip Dumi Masilela 😩💔💔💔💔💔 pic.twitter.com/OvdbkY5aES
— Nontobeko Hlophe 🌸 (@miss_rooii) August 3, 2017
So shocked by the passing of Dumi Masilela. So young, so talented. Lord his poor wife. pic.twitter.com/gn9ZSKBqkM
— Athi (@athidivine) August 3, 2017
What has South Africa come to??
RIP Dumi Masilela. My heart goes out to Simphiwe, I know exactly what you're going through💔 Qina ntombi
— LaToya Mthethwa (@_Mola_rsa) August 3, 2017
@MbalulaFikile Minister pls can the killers of Dumi Masilela be found not another Senzo Meyiwa & Siphiwe Hlatshwayo cold cases #EnoughNow
— Miss Percy (@PercyZuma1) August 3, 2017
Gone too soon, may the multi-talented Dumi Masilela rest in eternal peace. You will forever be remembered #RIPDumiMasilela😭😢 pic.twitter.com/hFXLy3jgOS
— IG: King Zomstra™ (@ZomstraWorldOn) August 3, 2017
When young love with everything going well is tested & shaken like this💔💔 @SimzNgema no words but our hearts with you 🙏🏾 #RIPDumiMasilela
— Rami Chuene 1st Lady (@ramichuene) August 3, 2017
Heartfelt condolences to Dumi's wife and family. 😢💔😢 May his soul peacefully find its way back to the Kingdom of God.❤️🌞 #RIPDumiMasilela
— Boity Thulo (@Boity) August 3, 2017
Sending my deepest condolences to the Masilela , Ngema & @eRhythmCity Family.
Another soldier has fallen.💔💔💔 #RIPDumiMasilela #ripdumi pic.twitter.com/UYGjTf5m84
— Coco Msomi (@CocoMsomi) August 3, 2017