Three months into the new year, the entertainment industry has been faced with yet another massive blow: the death of comedian and TV personality Ebenhaezer Dibakwane.
Dibakwane passed away on Friday, March 7, and was laid to rest on Friday, March 14, in Mbombela, Nelspruit.
Preliminary evidence suggests that it was death by suicide, a tragic reality that resonates with many in an industry long plagued by the hidden battles of mental health.
The 31-year-old award-winning comedian, actor and writer, who was adored for his exceptional talent in making people laugh, struggled with depression for several years.
His death homes in on the silent disease, which has taken the lives of many talents over the years, such as rapper Riky Rick and actors Patrick Shai and Siyabonga Zubane.
His family, heartbroken by the news, expressed their deepest grief in an official statement: "Ebby was well-known for the talent of making people laugh, and yet he struggled with depression for a number of years.
"While his passing is devastating for us and for many who loved him, it is our prayer that this tragedy may remind all of us of the need to look out for each other while taking care of our own mental health, including seeking professional help where necessary."
Understandably, the world of comedy has been shaken by Dibakwane's death.
In reflecting on the legacy of his dear friend, Dibakwane's manager, Tabitha Forrest, noted, "He grew so much over years. We started working with him at the age of 22. Just to see him develop and to see the talent that came out was phenomenal.
"I've taken these past few days to look back at some of the auditions he sent me, and honestly, he was so good at what he did. I don't think anybody could match his talent.
She added: "I found him very affectionate with me. There were many times that he would say that he felt like we were a part of his family, which was great.
"Very often I would wake up and get like a 5am heart from him on my WhatsApp, completely out of the blue ... He really did make people feel good, and, sadly, we couldn't help him a little bit more."
Award-winning comedian Chris Forrest, who mentored Dibakwane early in his career, reminisced about their first encounter during a kumasi challenge: "I saw him way back when he was doing a kumasi competition and I was convinced he was great and I still think he was destined to go on and do more great things."
Chris said that Dibakwane was a "warm and caring person".
"He possibly overthought things a lot and was probably far too clever for most of us, but he always made you feel good about yourself.
"He had a unique ability, he had this way of doing anti-comedy, but he did it in such a way that people who weren't aware that he was doing it, still found it funny, which I thought was amazing ... He wanted to change the world and make it a better place through his comedy, that was his big thing. He was unique."
"I think he has left a massive Ebenhaezer-size hole in the comedy industry. Everyone who knew him loved him. He was also loads of fun; sometimes it was mischievous fun, sometimes it was good-clean fun, but he will be sorely missed ...
"To the best of my knowledge, he was seeing a therapist, he did speak about it a lot. He will be sorely missed."
Comedian Wazi M Kunene expressed her heartfelt sorrow on Instagram, calling Dibakwane her “first friend” in the entertainment world and thanking him for his support and encouragement.
She wrote: "My first friend in this world we love so much. You helped me discover the most favourite thing about myself and generously gave yourself for me to chisel my magic wand on you. You looked out for me and beckoned breath back into my lungs many times with your encouragements and curiosity for who I am.
She added that it was a privilege to have been seen and known by him.
"I am grateful for the time given to experience you and create with you. You made me feel worthy. I love you so much, Eb. I hope to return the favour when we meet again. May your fervour for the art orbit around our community, where faith and purpose is in doubt ..."
Dibakwane’s rise to fame came after winning the Newcomer Award at the 6th annual Savanna Comic's Choice Awards in 2016, a celebration marking the start of a promising career.
He would go on to achieve accolades such as Comedian of the Year and receive a nomination for Best Achievement in Scriptwriting at the South African Film and Television Awards.
His journey included captivating performances in stand-up comedy alongside industry giants, like Dillan Oliphant, Trevor Noah, Marc Lottering, Eugene Khoza, Basketmouth and American comedians Aries Spears, Jeff Ross, Hannibal Buress, among others.
He made his television acting debut when he guest-starred on the e.tv soapie "Ashes to Ashes" in 2015. The following year, he presented the SABC1 show "Walala Wasala" and worked on the SABC2 sketch comedy show "The Bantu Hour".
In 2017, Dibakwane landed his first starring role on TV when he was cast as Kaygee in the SABC1 comedy, "Thuli noThulani". He went on to dance his way into fans' hearts when he participated in "Dancing with the Stars South Africa".
He also had roles in the "Emoyeni", "Easy Money", "Miseducation", "Thandeka's Diary", "Smoke & Mirrors", "The Estate" and "Father's Matter".
As fans and fellow artists grieve his loss, Dibakwane's legacy serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the need for compassion within the creative community.
With a unique ability to connect with audiences and inspire fellow comedians, Dibakwane leaves behind not just the memories of laughter but an urgent call to prioritise mental wellness.
Resources for help:
- SADAG Suicide Crisis Line: 0800 12 13 14.
- SADAG 24-Hour Helpline: 0800 567 567.
- Lifeline South Africa: 0861 322 322.
- Childline South Africa: 0800 055 555.