The family of actor and comedian Ebenhaezer "Ebby" Dibakwane has come out to confirm that he died in an apparent suicide. In a statement released by the Dibakwane family, they said they are battling to deal with losing him.

HE STRUGGLED WITH DEPRESSION FOR YEARS

The family said preliminary evidence suggests that he committed suicide, which they said they expect will be confirmed by post-mortem examination. Dibakwane passed away on Friday at the age of 31. "Poignantly, Ebby was well-known for the talent of making people laugh, and yet he struggled with depression for a number of years. While his passing is devastating for us and for many who loved him, it is our prayer that this tragedy may remind all of us of the need to look out for each other while taking care of our own mental health, including seeking professional help where necessary," the family said. They encouraged anyone struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts to seek help.

HE WILL BE BURIED IN MPUMALANGA

The Dibakwane family said the award-winning comedian will be buried on Friday in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, at the Church Unlimited. "We would like to thank all Ebby's friends and colleagues who are organising various events to honour and remember him," the statement said. The memorial service will be held at the Bioscope Cinema in Johannesburg tomorrow. Dibakwane made a name for himself when he appeared in the Comedy Central International Comedy Festival alongside Trevor Noah, Aries Spears, Jeff Ross, Hannibal Buress, Marc Lottering, Basketmouth, Carl Joshua Ncube, Eugene Khoza, Tats Nkonzo, and many others. He made his TV acting debut when he guest-starred as a film crew director in the e.tv soapie Ashes to Ashes in 2015. His star continued to rise when he presented Walala Wasala on SABC1. Dibakwane also appeared on TV in Divorced at 50, Real Estate, Sisters, and Miseducation.