Acclaimed director Teboho Mahlatsi’s last television project was an exclusive documentary on how the EFF came to being.
The Yizo-Yizo and Shaka Ilembe creator passed away on Monday morning following an illness. The Bomb Shelter Film Productions executive producer passed away at his home surrounded by his family on Monday morning. He was 52 years old.
After working on numerous television viewership-shattering projects, Sunday World can reveal that the producer-extraordinaire’s last project was to bring the story of the EFF to the television screens.
He had interviewed prominent EFF leaders including Julius Malema, who started the party in 2013 after he was expelled as president of the ANC Youth League.
EFF spokesperson Sinawo Thambo said the party is shattered by Mahlatsi’s untimely passing.
“We are mourning as an organisation because he has dedicated himself to that task, so you can imagine … We are saddened by his passing as much as the entire creative industry is in South Africa. May his soul rest in peace,” Thambo said.
He added that the documentary was still in the recording stages.
“Recordings were being done with prominent leaders of the EFF who were key in the formation of the EFF.”
Mahlatsi was a producer in the documentary. Thambo said his work will not be erased, as the documentary will still be released.
“He played a critical role in the development of our documentary. The documentary will still be released,” he said.
It is understood that the Kroonstad, Free State-born filmmaker passed away following a battle with cancer.
His family confirmed his passing through a statement which was shared by close friend and comedian David Kau on Monday.
“It is with the saddest regret that we announce the untimely passing of filmmaker and producer – Tebogo Moseling Mahlatsi, on the 3rd of July 2023,” reads the statement.
The family appealed for privacy to mourn the film producer.
“In lieu of personal condolences, the family kindly requests prayers and that they be given privacy to mourn and come to terms with the tragic loss. Further details will be communicated in due time,” the family said.
Mahlatsi’s passing sent shockwaves in the arts and entertainment industry with messages of support pouring in.
In addition to creating the iconic drama series Yizo Yizo in 1999, which is currently showing on Netflix, Mahlatsi co-created the much-talked about Shaka Ilembe series, which is also airing on Mzansi Magic.
He also created the emotional film Portrait of a Young Man Drowning in 1999.
Mahlatsi also brought productions such as Ghetto Diaries, Zone 14, Gaz’Lam, For Love and Broken Bones, and Netflix’s hit series Queen Sono to the television screens.
The details of his funeral and memorial service will be shared once they are available.
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