Veteran actor Luthuli Dlamini has once again become the subject of public concern after a video of him walking along a street circulated widely on social media, leaving fans divided and worried about his well-being. The Zimbabwean-born performer, best known for his memorable role as Stan Nyathi on *Scandal!*, was filmed on 21 January 2026 in what appeared to be a modest and rundown area, carrying a Shoprite grocery bag and a packet of chips.
In the now-viral clip, the person recording can be heard calling out to Dlamini from a car and offering him a drink. Responding in his well-known British accent, the actor jokingly declines, saying, “You’re going to get into trouble, giving an old man alcohol.” As he walks away, voices in the background can be heard expressing surprise, seemingly confirming that it was indeed the celebrated actor. The vehicle then drives off, briefly capturing the surrounding environment, which many viewers described as bleak and neglected.
The footage immediately reignited conversations about the financial stability of actors in South Africa, particularly those who were once household names. For many fans, seeing Dlamini outside the glamorous world of television, navigating everyday life far removed from the polished sets he once dominated, was deeply unsettling. Some questioned whether the industry had failed one of its most respected talents, while others wondered if he had simply chosen a quieter, more modest lifestyle away from the spotlight.
This is not the first time Dlamini’s circumstances have sparked speculation. In December 2024, rumours circulated online suggesting that he was homeless and living in an abandoned building. At the time, the actor firmly denied these claims, criticising the spread of false and damaging information about his personal life. Despite his efforts to put those rumours to rest, the latest video has once again placed him at the centre of public scrutiny.
Social media reactions to the clip have been mixed. Many users expressed heartbreak and frustration, arguing that a performer of Dlamini’s calibre should not be left vulnerable after decades of contributing to the entertainment industry. Some described him as one of South Africa’s finest actors and called for systemic changes to ensure long-term support and security for creatives.
However, others pushed back against the narrative that Dlamini was struggling. Several commenters pointed out that he appeared clean, healthy, and relaxed, suggesting that he was simply walking home from the shops like any other person. To them, the concern reflected society’s discomfort with seeing celebrities live ordinary lives outside the luxury often associated with fame.
Ultimately, the video has reopened an important national conversation about how success is defined and sustained in the entertainment world. Whether Luthuli Dlamini is facing challenges or simply choosing to live life on his own terms, the intense reaction highlights the fragile line between public interest and private reality — and the ongoing debate about how the industry treats its veterans once the spotlight fades.
About the Author
