Renowned South African actor and musician Mbuso Khoza has courageously opened up about a deeply personal and painful chapter in his life—a time when he stood on the edge of despair, contemplating ending it all. In a heartfelt revelation, the 47-year-old star from Eshowe in northern KwaZulu-Natal shared how a simple phone call from his daughter pulled him back from the brink.
Speaking candidly, Mbuso recalled the year 2018 as one of the darkest periods of his life. He was overwhelmed by depression and emotional trauma, feeling as though he had no reason left to live. Known for his powerful roles in Imbewu: The Seed, Umphokha: The Curse, and Shaka iLembe, Mbuso had reached a point where he saw no light ahead.
“I had made the decision. I was going to commit suicide,” he admitted. “I felt completely hopeless, like my existence no longer mattered.” But just before taking that tragic step, his phone rang. It was his then 11-year-old daughter, Alinde.
“She said only one thing: ‘Baba, I love you,’” Mbuso said. Those four words, spoken with innocence and love, pierced the darkness that had clouded his thoughts. “I stopped everything,” he said. “I couldn’t go through with it. That call saved me.”
Today, he credits Alinde not just for saving his life, but for giving him a renewed sense of purpose. Since that life-altering moment, Mbuso has found strength in fatherhood and healing through his craft. When he won his very first acting award—Best Supporting Actor in Film at the Simon Mabhunu Sabela KZN Film and Television Awards—he made sure Alinde was by his side.
“That award meant everything. It was my first one, and I received it in my home province. I knew I wouldn’t be there if it weren’t for her,” he said.
Since then, Mbuso has continued to rise. His portrayal of Mphalala in Umphokha: The Curse earned him critical acclaim. As a musician, his voice became a powerful symbol of heritage and pride, especially through his traditional amahubo (Zulu hymns) in the theme song of Shaka iLembe. His work on the soundtrack of Umphokha even inspired the release of a full album based on the series’ music.
But more than just enjoying artistic success, Mbuso is now on a mission to raise awareness about mental health and the life-saving power of support. He reminds others that sometimes all it takes is a kind word, a phone call, or a sign of love to stop someone from making a fatal decision.
He also thanked legendary producer Duma kaNdlovu for believing in him and casting him in roles that not only shaped his career but gave him renewed direction and meaning.
Today, Mbuso Khoza is a living testament to hope, resilience, and the profound impact of a child’s love. His story is a reminder that even in our darkest hours, love can light the way.
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