Culture Craze
Dr John Kani Joins the Academy: A South African Legend Among the Oscars Circle
A new chapter for a cultural giant
South Africa’s beloved actor, playwright, and activist, Dr John Kani, has added another milestone to his extraordinary career. At 81, the “Black Panther” star has been elected as a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the powerful institution behind the Oscars.
Taking to X to share the news, Kani wrote, “I promise to serve this institution with honesty and integrity.” His words were simple but carried the weight of a lifetime spent honouring his craft, his country, and his people.
A rare honour for South Africans
Kani’s election places him among an exclusive circle. Only two other South Africans have ever been admitted: the late casting director Moonyeenn Lee and award-winning producer Anant Singh. Academy membership is not something one applies for. It is granted through sponsorship from existing members, followed by rigorous review by branch committees and the Board of Governors before an invitation is extended.
This is recognition at the very highest level, and it signals how deeply Kani’s contributions have resonated in the global film community.
I have the honour and pleasure to announce that I have been elected to serve as a Member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences- Oscars. I promise to serve this institution with honesty and integrity. Elder ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ pic.twitter.com/YWUmk2WuvB
JOHN KANI OIS OBE (@KANI_ELDER) August 26, 2025
A wave of celebration
As soon as the announcement was made, tributes flooded social media. Former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela wrote, “Congratulations @KANI_ELDER. Super inspiring!” Another fan hailed him as “a blessing” and praised his integrity, while others called him “the first African to be elected to the Academy” and celebrated his achievement with dancing emojis and heartfelt words.
In South Africa, where Kani’s career has spanned theatre, television, and cinema, the mood was one of immense pride. To many, his Academy membership feels like recognition not only for him but also for the country’s artistic legacy.
A legacy that keeps growing
This honour comes just a year after Kani was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by King Charles III for his services to drama. That award recognised the decades he has dedicated to elevating South African theatre on the world stage, mentoring younger actors, and breaking barriers for African stories.
From his work in apartheid-era protest theatre to his roles in international blockbusters, Kani’s journey has always combined art with activism. His election to the Academy is less about Hollywood prestige than it is about a man who has consistently used his platform to honour truth, heritage, and resilience.
Why this moment matters
In a country where representation in global arts institutions has long been limited, Kani’s election is a reminder that South African voices are being heard at the highest levels. It also speaks to the importance of cultural pioneers who laid the groundwork for today’s generation of filmmakers, actors, and storytellers.
For Bonteheuwel, Soweto, Gqeberha, and beyond, his story inspires a belief that art can carry South Africa to the world and the world back to South Africa.
As one fan said online, “Tata, you are maturing like wine. This is it.”
Also read: Mam Nandi’s Farewell: A Wake-up Call for South African Creatives
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Source: IOL
Featured Image: News24
