The International Writers Association (IWA International) has joined the global literary community in mourning the loss of the legendary South African playwright, novelist, and director, Harold Athol Lanigan Fugard.
Fugard passed away on March 8, 2025, at the age of 92
He was widely regarded as one of the greatest playwrights of the 20th century who left behind a lasting legacy of courage, activism, and groundbreaking theatre.
In a statement issued by the Acting President of the IWA, Wole Adedoyin, the association expressed profound sorrow over Fugard’s death, reflecting on his remarkable contribution to world literature and theatre.
“Athol Fugard’s work was not only a mirror to the injustices of apartheid South Africa but also a beacon of hope and resistance for oppressed people everywhere. His writing changed lives and made us confront the injustices that are often silenced in society,” Adedoyin remarked.
Fugard’s prolific body of work, which includes iconic plays such as Blood Knot, Master Harold…and the Boys, The Island, and Sizwe Bansi is Dead, earned him international acclaim for his fearless exploration of human rights, freedom, and racial inequality. His plays, often set in the volatile political landscape of South Africa, challenged audiences to engage deeply with the oppressive systems of apartheid and their devastating impact on the lives of ordinary people.
The impact of Fugard’s plays extended beyond the stage, with several of his works being adapted into films. One of his most famous works, Tsotsi, was adapted into an Academy Award-winning film in 2005, directed by Gavin Hood. Fugard’s influence on the world of cinema and literature is indelible, with his writings continuing to inspire generations of writers, filmmakers, and theatre practitioners.
Fugard’s personal life and career also reflected his commitment to social justice. He was an outspoken critic of apartheid and a vocal advocate for the rights of marginalized communities. His work was often banned in South Africa due to its political content, yet it continued to resonate with audiences around the world. He was honored with numerous awards for his work, including the prestigious Order of Ikhamanga in Silver from the South African government in 2005, as well as an Honorary Fellowship from the Royal Society of Literature.
Athol Fugard’s impact was not confined to his plays. He also served as an adjunct professor of playwriting, acting, and directing at the University of California, San Diego, where he mentored and inspired a new generation of artists. His commitment to education and the nurturing of creative talent ensured that his legacy would continue through the work of those who studied under him.
In recognition of his immeasurable contributions to the arts, the Fugard Theatre in Cape Town was opened in 2010, cementing his status as a national and international cultural icon. His contributions to the theatre were further recognized when he was awarded a Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2011.
The International Writers Association extended its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Athol Fugard, as well as to the many fans and admirers of his work around the world.
“His voice may have fallen silent, but his plays, his spirit, and his relentless pursuit of justice will continue to inspire and challenge future generations.
“As we remember Athol Fugard, the IWA urges all writers, artists, and human rights advocates to carry forward the ideals for which he stood.
“His legacy will remain a testament to the power of words and the transformative potential of theatre to confront and challenge societal wrongs.” The statement read.