Condolences By The Minister On The Passing Of Soli Philander

I learnt with deep sadness tonight of the passing of Soli Philander, one of South Africa’s most beloved entertainers, storytellers and cultural voices.

For decades, Soli Philander brought laughter, insight and warmth to audiences everywhere in our country. Whether performing on stage, presenting on television, or sharing his always-ready humour through radio and public speaking, he possessed the rare gift of making people laugh by reminding us of who we are.

Many South Africans came to know and love him through his work on television programmes such as Liriekeraai and the South African edition of Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?, where his natural wit and charm made him a household name. 

His work as a comedian and storyteller drew deeply from the communities of the Cape Flats, giving voice to everyday experiences with wit, honesty and compassion.

Soli was a respected stage performer and writer whose work in theatre helped shape contemporary South African storytelling. Over the years he appeared in a number of film and television productions, including Arendsvlei, Dias Santana, Hooten & the Lady, Devil’s Peak, and The Umbrella Men: Escape from Robben Island, demonstrating versatility as an actor and performer.

What made Soli Philander special was not just that he had obvious talent, but that he used it in such a unique way. His humour carried the rhythms, languages and spirit of the Western Cape, and through it he helped bring the stories of ordinary South Africans into the national conversation.

Artists like Soli play an essential role in our democracy. They help us reflect on our society, find common ground, and remind us of our shared humanity. Through his charm and storytelling, Soli did it with grace and generosity every time.

On behalf of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, and as a longtime fan myself, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and the many South Africans whose lives he touched through his work.

May his loved ones find comfort in knowing that his voice, his jokes and his stories will live on in the hearts of the many he entertained and inspired.

Rus sag, Soli. Jou lag sal vir altyd by ons bly. 

Gayton McKenzie

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture