Born Bonisile John Kani on August 30, 1942, in New Brighton, Eastern Cape, South Africa, John Kani is a celebrated actor, playwright, director, and activist. His illustrious career spans over five decades, marked by significant contributions to both theater and film, locally and internationally. Notable roles include appearances in Black Panther and Captain America: Civil War.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Bonisile John Kani |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 30, 1942 |
| Place of Birth | New Brighton, Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| Partner | Mandi Anathi Gulwa-Kani |
| Children | Seven children, including Atandwa Kani |
| Occupations | Actor, Playwright, Director, Producer |
| Net Worth | Estimated between $5 million and $10 million (as of 2025) |
Early Life and Education
Kani grew up in New Brighton, Port Elizabeth, and attended Newell High School, where he developed a passion for drama alongside fellow actor Winston Ntshona.
He joined the Serpent Players in 1965, a group known for addressing social issues through experimental performances under apartheid.
Collaborating with Athol Fugard and Ntshona, Kani co-authored Sizwe Banzi Is Dead (1972) and The Island (1973), plays that highlighted the injustices of apartheid.
Career
Kani’s career began with the Serpent Players. His international breakthrough came with Sizwe Banzi Is Dead and The Island, earning him and Ntshona a Tony Award for Best Actor in 1975. He made history by portraying Othello in Shakespeare’s play during apartheid.
Kani debuted as a solo playwright with Nothing but the Truth (2002), which explored post-apartheid tensions and won multiple awards. He has appeared in films like Sarafina, A Dry White Season, Captain America: Civil War, Black Panther, Murder Mystery, and voiced Rafiki in Disney’s The Lion King.
Kani is also involved in theater administration as the executive trustee of the Market Theatre Foundation and director of the Market Theatre Laboratory.
Personal Life
John Kani is married to Mandi Anathi Gulwa-Kani, with whom he has been for over 40 years. They have seven children, including actor Atandwa Kani, who portrayed young T’Chaka in Black Panther. The couple also has ten grandchildren. Mandi has been a supportive partner throughout Kani’s career.
John Kani Net Worth
As of 2025, John Kani’s net worth is estimated to be between $5 million and $10 million, primarily from his successful acting career and theater productions.
Filmography
Films:
- Captain America: Civil War (2016)
- Black Panther (2018)
- Murder Mystery (2019)
- Murder Mystery 2 (2023)
- Sarafina
- A Dry White Season
- The Lion King (2019)
Plays:
- Sizwe Banzi Is Dead
- The Island
- My Children! My Africa!
- Nothing but the Truth
- Kunene and the King
Awards and Nominations
John Kani has received numerous accolades:
- Tony Award for Best Actor (Sizwe Banzi Is Dead, 1975)
- Obie Award for Contribution to Theater (2003)
- Fleur du Cap Awards for Best Actor (Nothing but the Truth, 2003)
- SAFTA Lifetime Achievement Award (2010)
- Order of Ikhamanga in Silver (2016)
- Honorary Doctorates from University of Cape Town (2006), Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (2013), University of Witwatersrand (2020)
- Honorary OBE from British Government (2023).
John Kani remains a prominent figure in South African arts and culture, celebrated for his contributions to theater, film, and activism.
