Who Is John Kani? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Born on August 30, 1942, John Kani is a prominent South African actor, playwright, and director. As of 2025, he is 82 years old and continues to be a significant figure in the theatrical and cinematic landscape. He is best known for his influential roles in South African theatre as well as in international films such as "The Lion King" and "Black Panther." Kani's contributions to the arts are characterized by his dedication to portraying complex African narratives and advocating for social change through performance.
| Occupation | Voice Actors |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 30, 1942 |
| Age | 82 Years |
| Birth Place | New Brighton, Eastern Cape, South Africa |
| Horoscope | Virgo |
| Country | South Africa |
Popularity
John Kani's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While exact figures may vary, John Kani stands approximately 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) tall and has a weight of around 180 lbs (82 kg). As he ages, Kani remains in good health, maintaining a fit physique that complements his vibrant stage presence.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
John Kani is known to keep his personal life relatively private. He is married to his wife, Donna Kani, and they have built a strong partnership over the years. The couple shares a deep bond and often supports each other's careers. As of 2025, there have been no public indications of any changes in their relationship status.
In 1975, after appearing in Athol Fugard's anti-apartheid play Sizwe Banzi Is Dead, which he also co-wrote, in the United States, Kani returned to South Africa. There, he received a phone call saying that his father wanted to see him. On his way there, he was surrounded by police who beat him and left him for dead.
His left eye was lost as a result of the incident, and he now wears a prosthesis which is technically a glass eye.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, John Kani's net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. His wealth is a reflection of his successful career in theatre, films, and his contributions to the arts. While exact salary figures vary, Kani has been involved in numerous high-profile projects that contribute significantly to his earnings.
Career, Business, and Investments
John Kani's career spans several decades and showcases his versatility as an actor and writer. He has been instrumental in the South African arts scene and has held roles in various productions. His notable works include plays such as "Sizwe Banzi Is Dead" and "The Island," which are pivotal in discussing apartheid-era issues.
In addition to acting, Kani runs several initiatives aimed at empowering young actors and playwrights in South Africa. He is also involved in investments that support local arts and theatre.
Kani is executive trustee of the John Kani Theatre Foundation, founder and director of the John Kani Theatre Laboratory and chairman of the National Arts Council of SA. He starred as T'Chaka in the Marvel Studios blockbusters Captain America: Civil War (2016) and Black Panther (2018).
The fact that Kani was a Xhosa native speaker led Chadwick Boseman, who played his onscreen son T'Challa, to make that Wakanda's language, and to learn whole scenes in Xhosa, although he had never studied the language before.
Social Network
John Kani is active on various social media platforms, primarily using them to connect with fans and share updates about his projects. You can find him on platforms like Instagram and Twitter, where he engages with audiences by sharing insights into his work and experiences.
Nothing but the Truth (2002) was his debut as sole playwright and was first performed in the Market Theatre in Johannesburg.
This play takes place in post-apartheid South Africa and does not concern the conflicts between whites and blacks, but the rift between blacks who stayed in South Africa to fight apartheid, and those who left only to return when the hated regime folded. It won the 2003 Fleur du Cap Awards for the best actor and best new South African play.
In the same year, he was also awarded a special Obie Award for his extraordinary contribution to theatre in the United States.
Education
Kani's educational background includes studying at the University of Cape Town, where he honed his skills in drama and literature. His education laid the foundation for what would become a remarkable career in performance, allowing him to explore various facets of storytelling.
In conclusion, John Kani remains a significant figure not only in South Africa but globally, inspiring many through his work in theatre and film. With continued advocacy for arts and culture, he stands as a beacon of creativity and resilience as he navigates the challenges of the entertainment industry in 2025.
In 2006, he was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Cape Town. Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University appointed him an honorary Doctor of Philosophy in 2013.
