- Darlington Michaels, best known for his role as Georgie “Papa G” Zamdela on Isidingo, passed away at 78, leaving a lasting legacy in South African entertainment.
- His career spanned theatre, film, and television, where he became a voice for social change, and he was a beloved figure in pop culture.
- Despite facing industry challenges, Michaels remained committed to his community and used his platform to educate and inspire young people.
- For more lifestyle news, go to the News24 Life front page.
South Africa has lost one of its most iconic television figures, actor Darlington Michaels, who died on Saturday aged 78 following a brief illness.
Best known for his role as the flamboyant gangster Georgie “Papa G” Zamdela on the long-running soap opera Isidingo, Michaels was a veteran performer whose career spanned several decades across theatre, film, and television.
Born Teboho Ndarana in Pimville, Soweto, Darlington Michaels grew up in a household influenced by a mix of cultures, with a Lesotho mother and a father from East London.
In a past interview, he told Sowetan that his family relocated to the vibrant Sophiatown neighbourhood before moving to White City.
It is believed that Michaels’ surname originates from his grandfather, a coloured man, adding another layer of cultural richness to his background. His upbringing in these dynamic environments significantly shaped his career, particularly his connection to Tsotsi-taal, a township slang he would later make famous through his on-screen persona.
(File photo): Actor from local SABC3 soapie, Isidingo, Darlington Michaels. (Photo: Media 24 Pty Ltd (magazines))
Media24 Africa
Michaels began his career in the arts during South Africa’s turbulent apartheid years. In 1984, he wrote and starred in a politically charged play titled Survival, which highlighted the harsh realities of apartheid-era prison systems. His work was met with resistance from the authorities, and he was arrested in Nelspruit and spent three months in prison without trial. Despite this setback, Michaels continued his theatrical career, becoming a voice for social change through the arts.
“It was important to tell that story because of what I heard and witnessed,” he once said in an interview with Bona Magazine, reflecting on the inspiration behind Survival.
After years in theatre, Michaels made his way to the television screen, where he would leave an indelible mark. In 1997, he landed the role of Georgie “Papa G” Zamdela on Isidingo, a character that would define his career and earn him a place in South Africa’s entertainment history. Known for his extravagant style, silk shirts, and heavy gold chains, Papa G became an iconic character in South African pop culture.
“My character was modelled after me – Papa G also spoke Tsotsi-taal and wore expensive silk shirts and extravagant jewellery,” Michaels told the publication.
(File photo) Darlington Michaels on October 19, 2011 in Johannesburg, South Africa. (Photo by Gallo Images/Oupa Bopape)
Johannesburg, SOUTH AFRICA – October 19: Darlington Michaels on October 19, 2011 in Johannesburg, South Africa. (Photo by Gallo Images/Oupa Bopape)
Johannesburg, SOUTH AFRICA – October 19: Darlington Michaels on October 19, 2011 in Johannesburg, South Africa. (Photo by Gallo Images/Oupa Bopape)
Gallo Images Oupa Bopape
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Although producers and screenwriters wrote his character’s script in English, he translated much of his dialogue into tsotsi-taal, bringing authenticity to the role and making Papa G an unforgettable figure on television.
Despite his larger-than-life portrayal of Papa G, Michaels described himself as “humble and God-fearing”.
“Darlington is a very humble and church-going person,” he shared in an interview with Sowetan. He credited his upbringing and the rich linguistic diversity of his childhood with helping him bring such a compelling character to life.
(File photo): 30 May 2003. South Africa. Local soapie, Isidingo set, Georgie “Papa G” Zamdela (Darlington Michaels) getting his make-up touched up for the next scene.(Photo: Alet Pretorius Media 24 Pty Ltd newspapers)
Media24 Africa Alet Pretorius
Michaels’ contribution to the South African entertainment industry extends beyond the SABC 3 soap opera. He appeared in a range of film and television projects, including the Mzansi Magic sitcom Chandies in 2012, where he played a conman named Daliza, and telenovela The Road in 2015, portraying Themba Mashinini, an older man reflecting on life in 1950s Sophiatown. He also had roles in films such as Strike Force (1986), Mapantsula (1988), Hearts & Minds (1995), and Cry, the Beloved Country.
Michaels was not immune to the challenges faced by many actors, particularly regarding fair compensation.
His departure from Isidingo in 2016 was due to pay disputes, although he later returned after settling with management.
He was vocal about the underpayment of actors and the lack of support from the industry for artists who had dedicated their lives to their craft. “At my age, I should own the work I have been a part of and that I invested my life in. But that is not the case,” he said, lamenting the systemic issues within the industry.
In addition to his work on screen, Michaels ran his own production company, Melisizwe Productions, which specialised in community theatre.
He was passionate about using the arts to educate and inspire young people, mainly through productions that addressed social issues such as substance abuse and teenage pregnancy.
“We are currently touring schools in Gauteng to teach children how to deal with the pressures they face,” he shared, showing his commitment to giving back to the community.”
This commitment is something that his former co-star, Kgomotso Christopher, lauded him for when reflecting on the news of his death.
In 2013, Michaels suffered a stroke while on a work trip, an event that profoundly impacted his life and career. He spent three months recovering at Groote Schuur Hospital and had to reduce his workload as a result. He took a prolonged break from acting to focus on his recovery before returning to acting in smaller roles and concentrating on his theatre work.
(File photo) September 2007: A portrait of South African actor, Darlington Michaels, known for his role in the popular soapie, Isidingo. (Photo: Media 24 Pty Ltd (magazines))
Media24 Africa
Michaels is survived by his wife, two children, and six grandchildren. Two of his children died before him, a personal tragedy that he carried with grace. He often spoke about the importance of family in his life, saying, “No man can live without a family. Those who say otherwise lie”.
Darlington Michaels’ legacy in South African entertainment is a testament to his talent, resilience, and passion.
Southern African television audiences will forever remember his portrayal of Papa G on Isidingo as one of the most iconic characters in SA television history, and his contributions to theatre and film have left an indelible mark on the industry.