Legendary actor Roderick Jaftha, renowned for his portrayal of Glen Majozi in the popular South African soap opera **Generations**, has recently revealed his dire financial situation, prompting a public plea for assistance. The 61-year-old actor, who is married and a father of four, has found himself unable to afford the R2,500 rent for his modest single-room accommodation. In a heartfelt admission, Jaftha expressed his struggles to provide for his family, stating that he often has to rely on the generosity of friends and family to make ends meet.
In an interview with **Zimoja**, Jaftha disclosed, “I am struggling to pay rent. I have small kids, and two of them are still at school.” He further lamented the difficulty in securing acting roles due to his limited language skills, as he only speaks Afrikaans and English. Despite his past success in the industry, he noted that finding substantial work has become increasingly challenging. “I have been getting gigs, but nothing significant,” he added.
Jaftha has attempted to reach out for help, including sending an email to Minister Gayton MacKenzie, but so far, he has not received a response. When questioned about the possibility of contacting **Generations** creator Mfundi Vundla for job opportunities, Jaftha mentioned that their relationship is not in good standing, which complicates matters further.
His situation has resonated with many South Africans, leading to an outpouring of support and sympathy from fans and fellow actors alike. Social media users have expressed their sorrow over the struggles faced by many in the entertainment industry, highlighting a widespread issue of financial instability among performers. One user noted, “Our people are struggling; it’s really sad. This industry is not doing great generally. Kunzima,” while another commented on the challenges faced by actors, saying, “It’s getting bad by the day. I left entertainment; I’ve never been so happy.”
Jaftha’s journey has not always been fraught with adversity. In an interview with **TshisaLIVE** back in 2017, he addressed the drastic change in his appearance, attributing it to stress and despair rather than substance abuse. He explained that he had faced a prolonged period of unemployment lasting over three years, which took a significant toll on his mental health. Despite the challenges, Jaftha continued to work on various productions, including **Villa Rosa**, where he played the character Dr. Anthony Jackson, although these roles were not in the mainstream spotlight.
As he navigates this difficult chapter in his life, Roderick Jaftha remains a beloved figure in the South African entertainment scene. His appeal for donations has drawn attention to the harsh realities many actors face after their initial fame fades. His current plight serves as a reminder of the importance of community support and the need for continued dialogue about the welfare of artists in South Africa.
For those interested in supporting Jaftha during this challenging time, he encourages donations and has provided contact details for anyone willing to help. As discussions around his situation continue, many hope for a positive resolution for the actor and his family.