Award-winning actor Jamie Bartlett has died aged 55, a relative has announced.
It is reported that the Mandela star’s death was confirmed to the South African eNCA – with the cause of death yet to be revealed.
The actor had been better know for his performances in Rhythm City for his role of David Genaro and Mike O’Reilly as Isidongo.
Other claims to fame include starring alongside Hollywood A-Lister Idris Elba, 49, in Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom.
In the iconic movie Bartlett played the prison guard of Nelson Mandela who was the South African president who was kept captive for many years.
(Image: IMDB)
The film was largely based on true events, surrounding the book that was written by Mandela himself in 1994.
After the news began to make it’s way online that Bartlett had sadly passed away, tributes for the South African actor began to pour in.
Fans hailed the on-screen star as “true artistic hero” with energy that “filled a room”.
(Image: Gallo Images via Getty Images)
Thomas Gumede, a co-star who worked with Bartlett on the Mandela set, said: “RIP to the legend Jamie Bartlett!
“A true artistic hero. Gone too soon, but thank you for giving us so much.”
Another fan penned: “Rest In Peace, King. You will always be my favourite actor.”
(Image: Getty Images)
Actress Nolwazi Shange-Ngubeni added: “The news of Jamie Bartlett’s death is weird to me.
“This is someone who’s spirit didn’t feel like it existed in the same realm as death.
“His energy filled the room. It was palpable. To talk to him in the past tense is strange. Rest with the angels Jay. Love Nolz”
Bartlett, who was born in Maidenhead, Berkshire, UK to a South African mum and British father went on to have many successes in his lengthy career.
He played the supporting role to Angelina Jolie in Beyond Borders in 2003 and landed the judging role in 2016 and 2017 on South Africa’s Got Talent.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
