Renowned producer Andries (Andre) Scholtz passed away peacefully at his home in Cape Town, surrounded by his family, on Monday, 30 September 2024.
Andre’s remarkable career and contributions to the industry have left a lasting legacy, and his loss is profoundly felt by all who knew and worked with him. He was 79 years old.
More info about Andries (Andre) Scholtz
Born on April 9, 1945, in the West Rand to Joachim and Mart Scholtz, Andre’s journey began in the small
town of Koffiefontein in the Free State. He was raised alongside his younger brother, Dawid, with whom he
shared a lifetime of memories, from climbing trees in Chingola to late nights in Durban’s clubs.
In 1981, Andre Scholtz met the love of his life, Riana, while working on a film set. Their love story blossomed into a family with five children—Gertruida, Michael, Mara-lee, Dries, and Kristo.
Riana often said Andre was an amazing father, and his children’s fond memories show that he was a loving “Pa,” always recognizing their uniqueness and providing guidance in ways they understood.
Andre was blessed with six granddaughters—Caitlyn, Oona, Aerin, Ciara, Grace, and Johanna—who adored him.
Just days ago, he welcomed his first grandson, a continuation of the legacy of love he built. To his daughters-in-law,
Melanie, Amy, and Sara, he was more than a father-in-law—he was a cherished figure who embraced them as his own.
Though a giant in the South African film industry, to his family, Andre was simply “Pa” and “Oupa”—a devoted father and grandfather who delighted in their every achievement. He believed his children and grandchildren were his crown jewels, taking immense pride in all of them.
Andre’s illustrious career spanned over five decades. Armed with a Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce and a Master’s in Business Leadership, he played a pivotal role in shaping the South African film landscape.
His passion for storytelling allowed him to produce and co-produce over 35 feature films, as well as numerous television series, many of which have become beloved classics.
From 1985 onwards, Andre co-produced and produced iconic films such as You Must Be Joking, You Must Be Joking Too, Sweet ‘n Short, Oh Shucks, It’s Schuster, Oh Shucks, Here Comes UNTAG, Zulu on My Stoep, and Panic Mechanic (which he also co-wrote).
Other significant titles include Millennium Menace, Running Riot, Oh Shucks, I Am Gatvol, Rainbow Skellums (which he directed and produced), Ordinary People, and Die Wonderwerker (The Miracle Worker). More recently, he contributed to Shucks, Your Country Needs You and Shucks, Pay Back the Money.
His collaboration with acclaimed filmmaker Koos Roets on PawPaw for My Darling, released in January 2016, was
among his many notable works. In 2007, their series Dryfsand won several prestigious ATKV Veertjie Awards,
including Best Drama, Best Script (awarded to P.G. du Plessis), and Best Director (Koos Roets).
Andre Scholtz’s work on Toorbos introduced him to Rene van Rooyen and her talented crew, culminating in the creation of Meerkat Maantuig, which garnered international acclaim. Andre also served as a SAFTA judge for several years, most recently in 2024.
Beyond the accolades, Andre Scholtz was a mentor, teacher, and friend to many. As the Head of School at AFDA in Port Elizabeth, he inspired aspiring filmmakers, leaving an indelible mark on future generations. His contributions to Afrikaans cinema were celebrated at M-Net’s Silwerskerm Fees, where he received recognition for his life’s work.
Andre’s love for rugby never waned. A talented player in his youth, he maintained his passion for the sport throughout his life. Just days before his passing, he was cheering on the Springboks, surrounded by family—a true testament to his vibrant spirit.
Known for his warmth, humor, and ability to forge lasting friendships, particularly with Leon Schuster, Andre’s partnership with him helped shape a lasting legacy in the film industry.
Andre Scholtz was a towering figure, both in stature and in heart. He was firm when needed, yet his kindness and compassion shone through in every interaction. A man of integrity, he lived life with honesty and grace—a true gentleman.
The family deeply appreciates the outpouring of support from the public and media and respectfully asks for privacy as they navigate this challenging time.
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