Minnie Dlamini, Tumi Morake among those paying tribute to Bra Phil

Actresses Minnie Dlamini and Tumi Morake were some of the media personalities who paid tribute to television director, Phil Hlophe.

“My heart is completely shattered. Bra Phil has worked on almost all the awards shows that I’ve hosted,” wrote Dlamini in a heartfelt note on Instagram.

“You brought such life, fun and wisdom to every set. You gave me so much direction on that film set that I will always be grateful for, will hold close and use in your honour.

“The impact you made in shaping this industry and the people in it will never be forgotten by us. We love you so much Baba wethu. My deepest condolences to the family, sending strength to you all during this time,” Dlamini added.

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It’s unclear when Hlophe passed away, but tributes started pouring since Friday.

Some of the show he worked on includes SABC 3 TV series The Docket, MasterChef South Africa and 2019 film Love Lives Here.

“Rest in peace Ta Phil. And thank you. Over the past 14 years I knew if you were running a set I’m in great hands, I’m gonna laugh, I’m gonna get a tender moment and set’s gonna be a vibe – hard day or not, you would crack the tension so easily with one comment and everyone is back like they never left,” Morake said.

A loved man

Greed & Desire actress Kamo Letsosa was one of the first to pay tribute to the late director.

“This honestly has to be our industry’s greatest loss!! My heart!? This one is soooo personal bruh. My heart is so heavy. Rest in power “Pops’” said Letsosa.

A common thread among all the tributes for Hlope was his kindness and assertiveness in carrying out his duties.

“Thee most wonderful, kindest yet firm [and] assertive man! Only he knew how to combo those two beautifully and get us on to set. We love you King Phil,” Khabonina Qubeka averred on Twitter.

“Aye yo pops”
“Yes baby”
“Re shoota neng”

*SHOUTS THEATRICALLY* 😂

“ Let’s ROLL YOOOOOOO’”

Ah Bra Phil, we lost a giant😩😭💔#RIPBraPhilHlophe Rest Easy King🕊️ pic.twitter.com/X1z3d8K5Ss

— 🌸Kiki wa Lekgowa!! (@kamooletsosa) October 6, 2023

In her post, Dlamini reflected on the times when Hlophe acted as a shield for her when she was still wet behind the ears and even years later when she had gained experience.

“My very first one [award show as host] he decided he wasn’t going to leave my side, (waaaaay below his pay grade) but he saw how young and frightened I was, and took it upon himself to make sure I had the confidence I needed to be my best self!”

“Years went on and I starred in my first feature film, set wasn’t going well and things were starting to fall apart, as with any production. The decision was to bring in Bra Phil as 1st AD and I remember Tumi Morake looking at me and saying ‘we’re saved’ And we were” said Dlamini, referencing to the movie Love Lives Here.

“The absolute deepest love and respect for Bra Phil, I can immediately think of his warm smile,” said ZizoTshwete.

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