Many child stars tend to disappear from the limelight of the entertainment industry when they enter adulthood.
However, Akhumzi Jezile, 29, who died in a car crash in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, last Saturday seemed destined for the long term in a colourful television career primarily as presenter, actor and producer because he appeared to have known his purpose in life from an early age.
The television personality’s talent and bubbly personality on and off the screen captivated many viewers regardless of age, gender and race. His sunny smile and warm laughter suggested that he had a genuine love for his fans.
His television work was primarily about responsibility to his viewers rather than stardom and fame.
Jezile’s big break on the small screen was in 2007 when he debuted on SABC1’s children variety show, YOTV as a presenter. He instantly became a firm favourite.
WATCH | Teary farewell to #AkhumziJezile #AkhumziJezileFuneral
Every day youngsters would tune into watch this teen sensation and his equally bubbly co-presenters such as Khanya Mkangisa, Mandisa Nakana and Sipho “Psyfo” Ngwenya. He was barely seven when Urban Brew launched the show in 1996.
But he has since become its face. He once remarked that the knowledge that he was an inspiration to millions of children motivated him to work harder when the programme was sheer entertainment or education.
Jezile went on to produce The Big Breakfast, one of YOTV’s popular slots. Two years ago he took over from Mxolisi “Zuluboy” Majozi as presenter of SABC1’s Fan Base, a playful, light-hearted and fun-filled music variety show aired on Friday evenings.
Needless to say, it was a programme that seemed tailor-made for his out-there, friendly personality as he connected his musician guests with the audience.
His acting career took off with the role of Tsietsi Zwane in SABC1’s Khululeka Siyavota (2011), a comedy series based on voter education for the municipal elections.
Akhumzi Jezile. Picture: Supplied
In 2013, he expanded his acting footprint when he joined the cast of Tempy Pushas, an SABC drama series based on the world of fashion and township culture. He starred as the likeable Ngulube in both seasons - acting alongside seasoned actors such as Motshabi Tyelele, Marah Louw and Camilla Waldman.
When the judges gave him a nod for the 2014 SAFTA for best supporting actor in a TV drama, his acting abilities were officially confirmed but the award motivated him to expand his horizons.
#RIPAkhumzi: Friends, colleagues mourn death of Akhumzi Jezile
Always willing to learn, he was also a broadcaster of note at Umhlobo Wenene and spoke at least four languages fluently - Xhosa, English, Zulu and Sotho.
The tragic accident also claimed the lives of four other people, including other TV personalities Thobani Mseleni and Siyasanga Kobese.