In a recent turn of events, Gayton McKenzie, South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, has called for the retirement of legendary singer and actress Abigail Khubeka. The 84-year-old, renowned for her role in the popular TV series *Generations: The Legacy*, was celebrated at a tribute concert on August 17 at the Joburg Theatre.
The tribute event, which honored Khubeka’s illustrious career spanning over five decades, featured performances from several renowned musicians including Lira, Brenda Mtambo, Mdu Masilela, Trompies, Judy Page, Mara Louw, and Simmy. The ceremony also saw award-winning actress Lerato Mvelase serve as the master of ceremonies, while legendary TV host Felicia Mabuza-Suttle praised Khubeka, acknowledging her longstanding influence on the South African entertainment industry since the 1950s.https://twitter.com/GaytonMcK/status/1825070433688825912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1825070433688825912%7Ctwgr%5Ed9d89929f5b08fc923601e821f81a278da601291%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thesouthafrican.com%2Flifestyle%2Fceleb-news%2Flocal-celebs%2Fgayton-mckenzie-generations-the-legacy-singer-actress-abigal-khubeka-retirement-fund%2F
In a significant gesture of appreciation, Gayton McKenzie announced his request for Khubeka’s retirement during the event. He expressed that South Africa owes a great deal to Khubeka for her contributions to the arts. “We need to take care of our stars,” McKenzie stated. “We owe her a lot for her contribution, and it is only fair that we allow her to retire and rest.”
McKenzie went a step further by offering to fund Khubeka’s retirement. This gesture highlights his commitment to ensuring that the country’s veteran artists are honored and supported as they transition out of the limelight.
This move by McKenzie follows a recent revelation at the funeral of actress Connie Chiume, where her son disclosed that she was subjected to harsh working conditions even at the age of 70. This revelation shed light on the challenges faced by aging performers in the industry, underscoring the importance of McKenzie’s support for Khubeka’s retirement.https://twitter.com/Gen_legacy/status/1623547740058951681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1623547740058951681%7Ctwgr%5Ed2fac28984f940e516305432e372397035fcb1c8%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thesouthafrican.com%2Flifestyle%2Fceleb-news%2Flocal-celebs%2Fgayton-mckenzie-generations-the-legacy-singer-actress-abigal-khubeka-retirement-fund%2F
Khubeza’s career, which includes notable roles and contributions to the South African music scene, has left an indelible mark on the entertainment landscape. The tribute concert served as a testament to her impact and the high regard in which she is held by her peers and the public alike.