#RIPPatrickShai: South Africans pour in touching condolences after actor Patrick Shai’s passing

Tributes have been pouring in on social media following the death of South African legendary actor and activist, Patrick Shai.

Shai passed away in the early hours of Saturday after he allegedly committed suicide in the garage at his house in Dobsonville, Soweto.

The GBV activist’s sudden death has left many in the entertainment community shocked, especially as it came a few days after he apologized to Hip-Hop star Cassper Nyovest over his controversial attacks to Mufasa, where he threatened to beat him.

“I should have as an adult. My apologies, I humbly, from the bottom of my heart, apologize for having used such strong language towards your mom. Even though the challenge would’ve been an ideal thing but now it has been soured by what I said,” he said.

News of his suicide, which will send a shock wave through the continent, was revealed by a family friend, and the family later confirmed his passing.

South Africans took to social media to share heartfelt condolences following his death:

RIP Patrick shai we should have listened when you cried for help. #RIPPatrickShai pic.twitter.com/FL0s165Ko7

— Best selling Author (@MeshackBevhula) January 22, 2022

RIP Patrick Shai ? pic.twitter.com/Mxa1CI8Z4P

— Rumani® (@RealMrumaDrive) January 22, 2022

Depression is not a joke, it's a real illness that doesn't discriminate. No amount of money or fame can fix it. Anxiety and panic attacks too are not signs of weakness but signs of trying to remain strong for too long.

RIP Patrick Shai ?

— Mr Smeg (@MichaelBucwa) January 22, 2022

The man was the MC at my wedding as we were neighbours. We were like family in Mmesi Park. So gutted by your passing Bra Patrick Shai ? #RIPBraPat pic.twitter.com/fUqhJldR5b

— ?Original Maqhawe? (@MaqPaulM) January 22, 2022

Never judge those who are simply defeated by the long, hard struggle to stay alive.

When one dies after a long illness, people say "Ulwile shame"

Yet with suicide, they think that no fight was involved, that they simply gave up.

NOT TRUE.

I hope Patrick Shai is at peace now? pic.twitter.com/9l2B0yyGTp

— Mzilikazi (@SneMzilikazi) January 22, 2022

He is best known for his roles on the television series Soul City, Zone 14 and TV soap Generations The Legacy.

Nkosheng, as he was famously known in the retro drama, Bophelo Ke Semphekgo is survived by his two children.