by Thinus Ferreira
Veteran TV producer Danie Odendaal has died. He was 77.
The creator of SABC2's long-running 7de Laan through his Danie Odendaal Productions died in Langebaan after a short sickbed.
The cause of his death on Wednesday evening isn't immediately known.
Danie Odendaal suffered a stroke five years ago in December 2019 while at his home in Pervillac, France and returned to South Africa. His health deteriorated over the past few months.
His family in a statement says "It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Danie Odendaal who died peacefully on 30 October 2024, in Langebaan, where he resided for the past 6 years, with his beloved wife, Annie Odendaal".
"Danie lived a life full of creativity and warmth, quietly shaping the world around him through his story telling. Known for his humour and wit, he had a way of speaking his mind that inspired those fortunate enough to know him."
"His contributions to television and theatre in South Africa paved the way for countless others, and his legacy shines brightly through 7de Laan, a beloved soap opera that captured the hearts of so many. It stands as a lighthouse to his artistic spirit and people-first approach."
"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Thandi Ramathesele, a friend and business partner to Danie, who held his dreams and vision for 7de Laan close, honouring his legacy with dedication and respect."
"Our thanks also go to Candice Moodley- who was much like a daughter to Danie and Annie - who cared for Danie's well-being and managed his portfolio with grace, bringing comfort to his later years."
"Danie will forever be remembered for his kindness, humour, and creative spirit. You were all in some shape or form, his family."
Besides 7de Laan, the producer, director and writer wrote the TV series Saartjie, Dennekruin 12 and the script for the film Galery.
He was the director of Dennekruin 12, Galery, Die man met 'n lyk om sy nek, Beelde, Saartjie, Okovango: The Wild Frontier and the miniseries Veldslag.
Danie Odendaal studied at the University of Stellenbosch as well as the Sorbonne University in France and Trinity College in Cambridge in the United Kingdom and joined the SABC as a director when television started in South Africa.
When Franz Marx started Egoli for M-Net (DStv 101), Danie Odendaal was appointed as head writer in 1992. After eight years in this role, he crafted 7de Laan - an idea he had for several years - for SABC2 which started in 2000.
Danie Odendaal remained executive producer for 15 years until he stepped away from 7de Laan and became co-producer after the SABC ordered the mandate and style of the soap to change.
Henry Mylne, who worked with Danie Odendaal at Egoli and then as director at 7de Laan until the SABC2 soap ended, told RSG on Thursday that Odendaal's death was a shock.
"It's a shock. We were not prepared. He died peacefully."
