Legendary South African Actor John Kani Joins The Oscars Prestigious Voting Body
- John Kani has been announced as the latest inductee to join the Oscars voting body
- The legendary actor has been elected to serve as a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
- Social media erupted with cheers as fellow South Africans congratulated Ntate Kani on the incredible honour

Source: Getty Images
John Kani has been elected to join the prestigious Oscars' voting body.
Famous for his years-long commitment to telling authentic South African stories through film, the legendary actor will serve as a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Ahead of his 82nd birthday on 30 August 2025, he shared the announcement on his official Twitter (X) page on 26 August, a proud moment of which he vowed to uphold with the utmost integrity:
"I have the honour and pleasure to announce that I have been elected to serve as a Member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences- Oscars. I promise to serve this institution with honesty and integrity."

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Source: Getty Images
Ntate Kani, who also holds the honorary Order of Ikhamanga (OIS) and Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) titles, joins fellow South Africans Anant Singh, Moonyeenn Lee, Jamie D. Ramsay and Don Edkins on the voting body.
The Academy is known for its annual Oscars, and the members' primary role is to vote and nominate candidates for the prestigious ceremony.
The massive honour was well received by fellow South Africans, who celebrated and congratulated the Black Panther actor on his incredible appointment.
Here's how social media reacted to John Kani's election
South Africans said the appointment was well-deserved and congratulated John Kani, praising him for consistently representing the country on international stages:
MogapiTshiya added:
"Congratulations, Elder! The Academy is truly honoured and blessed to have you among its ranks. I couldn’t think of a more fitting nomination."
TebogoDitshego said:
"Well deserved, congratulations to Dr John Kani."

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MrSamOSullivan wrote:
"One of the best decisions the Academy has made in recent years!"
TheMizzCCB posted:
"Congratulations, Elder!!! It is very well deserved for all of your hard work over many decades! May you have more success in the coming years."

Source: Getty Images
RaashisReflect celebrated:
"Fantastic and fabulous! A long time coming that Africa should be represented. And by who better than you. Salute! Respect!"
Vuyothedreamer1 remarked:
"Congratulations, Ntate Kani. This is huge!"
thembisak_ was happy for John Kani:
"Aww, Tata. It couldn't have happened to a more deserving person, congratulations."
South African broadcaster Redi Tlhabi, responded:
"Oh, I am so thrilled! I am so proud of you. It gives me great joy to read about your never-ending achievements. You are a blazing light."
sontondlovu added:
"Proud moment."
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The late actress, whose career spanned three decades, has had the pleasure of gracing the best productions in the country, which have allowed her to explore her versatility and become a globally recognised icon.
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Source: Briefly News