Former Scandal! actor Luthuli Dlamini, once a well-known face on South African television, is facing one of the toughest chapters of his life. According to reports, Dlamini is currently homeless and living in an abandoned house in Randburg, a property reportedly used by drug addicts. The house, located near the Randburg taxi rank, has become his temporary refuge after months of financial hardship and a lack of acting opportunities. Dlamini’s situation has left many in his community shocked, as he is recognized by neighbors, but no one judges him, acknowledging that difficult times can befall anyone.
Living with a group of strangers, Dlamini has been in the dilapidated house for just under a year, after struggling to secure acting work. A local neighbor, who wished to remain anonymous, spoke about Dlamini’s situation, saying, “He’s been staying here for some time. Everyone knows him, but no one judges. It’s life.” The neighbor added that despite his circumstances, Dlamini is respected by the other residents in the house, though it is clear that he has fallen on hard times.
This year has been particularly painful for the actor, who also suffered the loss of his child. The neighbor revealed that Dlamini has not been the same since the tragedy. “He doesn’t want to talk about it, but he teared up the one time he mentioned it,” the neighbor said. Dlamini confirmed the loss to ZiMoja, though he asked for privacy, saying, “It’s a child. Please, I don’t want to speak about it.” The grief and trauma appear to have deeply affected him, compounding the challenges he faces.
Dlamini’s financial struggles began when he was not paid for his work on the drama series Empty Love, which he shot in September 2022. TV producer Mercier Bangala reportedly owes him R150,000 for his role in the series, which never aired. As a result, Dlamini’s financial situation deteriorated, and he was unable to pay his rent, eventually leading him to occupy Mercier’s home. This series of setbacks has only added to the actor’s mounting challenges, and the non-payment of his salary appears to have had lasting consequences.
Attempts to reach Dlamini for comment have been unsuccessful, with his phone going straight to voicemail. Despite the silence, those who know him are calling for help, with many expressing concern about his well-being. Dlamini’s story is a poignant reminder of the fragility of fame and fortune, and the personal battles many in the entertainment industry face behind the scenes.
