Award-winning director and Yizo Yizo creator Teboho Mahlatsi has passed away. Mahlatsi who was the director of The Bomb Shelter Film Company is said to have died of cancer at the age of 49 this morning. Mahlatsi, who graduated from the Africa Cultural Centre Film & Television Course, has been a respected screenwriter, and has written, produced, and directed many projects, including the documentary Ghetto Diaries SABC Education TV.

HE WAS A MAVERICK 

Mahlatsi was part of the groundbreaking and controversial youth drama Yizo Yizo (1999), which is currently being aired on the streaming service Netflix, Portrait of a Young Man Drowning (1999), and For Love and Broken Bones (2016). The bomb has discovered a local talent that has been featured in telenovelas like Isibaya. They have also produced countless groundbreaking TV dramas, documentaries, and commercials. Mahlatsi has been the most sought-after and award-winning commercial director. He has been behind the creation of Bomb’s drama series such as Jacob’s Cross, Isibaya, and Ayeye. After being with Bomb Productions for two decades, Mahlatsi started a new company, Moseling Films. Sources close to the situation say he died after a long illness. " He died at home, it is sad to watch his wife and two kids crying," adds the source. ZiMoja has learnt that at the time of his death, he was working on a big-budget production with Netflix. According to the source, cancer was cruel to the media-shy Mahlatsi. " It was said to watch my friend dealing with this illness,"

FAMILY CONFIRMES HIS PASSING

In a statement, Mahlatsi’s family confirmed his passing. "It is with saddest regret that we announce the untimely passing of filmmaker and producer Teboho Moseling Mahlatsi, on the 3^rd July 2023. In Lieu of personal condolences, the family kindly mourns and comes to terms with the tragic loss. Further details will be communicated in due time, Mahlatsi family," the statement said. Mahlatsi is survived by his wife, former model Palesa and two children.