Thinus Ferreira
Johnny Davids, the beloved TV presenter of programmes like Landbouweekliks on VIA (DStv 147) and Kwêla and Ysters op die Landgoed on kykNET (DStv 144) who was also a sports commentator on SuperSport in Afrikaans died on Thursday morning after a heart attack. He was 48.
Johnny Davids who lives in Cape Town started to complain about chest pains on Wednesday but ignored it and died in Pretoria where he was staying in a guest house and was working on an episode of Landbouweekliks.
At 03:00 this morning an ambulance was called but medics failed to revive him on the scene.
Johnny Davids who wrote the searing autobiography Boytjie that was published in 2024, is survived by his wife, Liezel, and three sons, Ayden, Conway and Juan.
Johnny Davids joined Landbouweekliks in 2024 and was also a motivational speaker, besides working for SuperSport as an Afrikaans sports commentator and working for Homebrew Films on shows like Kwêla, Bravo! and the golf estate magazine show Ysters op die Landgoed.
His unbelievable life journey is chronicled in his book and how he grew up without his birth parents, got adopted by a teacher and won the singing reality competition Zing on kykNET.
On radio, he became a familiar voice and hosted shows on the SABC's RSG, like music programmes OppiRadio and Al Daai Jazz, for seven years, in addition to anchoring daily sports coverage.
During the beginning years of kykNET he was one of the channel's continuity presenters.
His wife Liezel said in a note on social media, "Johnny was a beloved person whose presence touched the lives of many people".
"His kindness, strength, and steadfast spirit will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His passing has left us heartbroken and devastated and we share in the deep sorrow felt by us as his family, friends and community."
Azelia Morkel, VIA channel head, says "Johnny was an exceptional person with a wonderful story of conquering and hope."
"His passion for people and ability to connect with farmers as well as viewers made his a welcoming face on the channel. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Liezel, his three sons and extended family during this difficult time."
VIA and the Landbouweekblad magazine, as well as the Brand Republic producers of Landbouweekliks say they will always cherish Johnny's contribution to the channel and his warm approach to his work: "He will be missed".
Waldimar Pelser, director of premium channels at MultiChoice, in a statement, says "Johnny chose to live his life in such a way that it served as an example for young men".
"In his warm, engaging way, he showed that dedication, integrity, and humanity are non-negotiable, and thus became an example not only for the youth, but for all of us."
"Johnny was also loved by kykNET viewers. He made his debut on the channel in 2003 by winning the Zing talent competition with his singing partner, Vivian Molauly. He then became a familiar face as a presenter on, among others, Kwêla and Ysters op die Landgoed."
"His death, especially at such a young age, is a great shock and a tremendous loss."
Paul Venter, Homebrew Films producer, says "Johnny was one of our stalwarts at Homebrew Films, from years ago's Kollig op Kie to Ysters op die Landgoed en Kwêla".
"He was was professional, very good at what he did but above all probably the most decent person to work with imaginable - he would never say anything bad about anyone."
"He was always positive, full of enthusiasm and a role model for everyone. I don't think the void he leaves can ever be filled. We will miss him incredibly much and are thinking of his family, friends and also other colleagues during this difficult time."
SuperSport in a statement in Thursday afternoon, says "SuperSport is deeply saddened by the passing of beloved Afrikaans commentator, award-winning TV presenter and artist, Johnny Davids, who passed away suddenly in the early hours of Thursday morning."
"Born in Narraville, in Namibia, Davids was a prominent and authoritative voice in both rugby and cricket since joining the broadcaster in 2012."
"A multi-talented broadcaster, his repertoire extended far beyond the commentary box; he was an acclaimed sports commentator, a seasoned radio presenter, and a gifted musician who brought immense passion to everything he did."
"Most recently, Johnny Davids graced our screens during the Betway SA20 tournament, where his sharp analysis and vibrant Afrikaans commentary brought the thrill of the game into the living rooms of fans across the country."
"Johnny was an invaluable asset to the SuperSport team. His infectious energy, profound knowledge of the sports he covered, and warm, approachable demeanour made him a favourite among viewers and colleagues alike."
Rendani Ramovha, Canal+ director for sport content for English & Portuguese-speaking Africa, says "Johnny was an immense talent and a cherished member of our broadcasting team".
"His dedication to his craft and his unique ability to articulate the emotion and nuance of sport made him truly special. On behalf of SuperSport, I wish to express our most heartfelt condolences to the Davids family and his loved ones during this incredibly tough time."
"He leaves behind a rich legacy and will be hugely missed by the entire SuperSport family. SuperSport extends its deepest sympathies and support to the Davids family, friends, and the broader sporting community."
