Renowned television producer and director, Danie Odendaal, has sadly passed away at the age of 77. The news of his death was announced by his family, who described him as a creative genius who left an indelible mark on the South African entertainment industry.
Odendaal, best known for creating the popular soap opera 7de Laan, passed away in Langebaan on Wednesday, 30 October after a brief illness. His health had been declining over the past few months, following a stroke he suffered in 2019 while living in France with his wife, Annie Basson. The exact cause of his death has not been disclosed.
Throughout his career, Odendaal made significant contributions to both television and theatre in South Africa. His family paid tribute to his legacy, highlighting his humor, wit, and people-first approach. They credited him for paving the way for countless others in the industry and acknowledged 7de Laan as a testament to his artistic spirit.
Odendaal’s journey in the television industry began at the University of Stellenbosch, followed by studies at the Sorbonne University in France and Trinity College in the UK. He later joined the SABC as a director during the early days of television in the country. In 1992, he was appointed as the head writer for the bilingual soap opera Egoli by Franz Marx, before creating 7de Laan for SABC 2.
As the executive producer of 7de Laan for 15 years, Odendaal played a key role in the show’s success, making it one of the most-watched programs in South African television history. His colleague, Henry Mylne, described him as a highly respected and beloved figure in the industry, emphasizing the impact he had on television storytelling.
Odendaal’s passing marks the end of an era in South African television, but his legacy as a pioneer and visionary will continue to inspire future generations of storytellers. His creative spirit, kindness, and humor will be remembered fondly by those who had the privilege of knowing him.
