Jamie Bartlett: Movies & Box Office

James “Yoink” Bartlett (9 July 1966 – 23 May 2022) was a versatile British‑born South African actor whose career spanned almost four decades, leaving an indelible mark on both television and stage. Born in Maidenhead, Berkshire, England to a British father and a South African mother, Bartlett moved to South Africa where he quickly became a fixture of the country's vibrant theatre scene, notably at the historic Market Theatre that symbolised resistance during apartheid. His early breakthrough came with the play Cock and Bull Story in 1986, earning him a Vita Award for Most Promising Actor, and he followed this with a Fleur du Cap Award for East in 1987, establishing his reputation as a powerful dramatic presence. Transitioning to screen, Bartlett made his film debut in the American action sequel American Ninja 2 (1987) and later appeared alongside Michael Dudikoff in American Ninja 5 (1993), demonstrating his ability to cross cultural and genre boundaries. In South Africa he became a household name through television, most famously portraying the scheming puppeteer David Genaro in the long‑running soap Rhythm City starting in 2007, a role that showcased his talent for complex, morally ambiguous characters. He also originated the first spoken line in the iconic series Isidingo as Mike O'Riley, and later served as a judge on SA's Got Talent, further broadening his public profile. Bartlett’s film work included supporting roles in internationally recognised productions such as Beyond Borders (2003) with Angelina Jolie, Red Dust (2004) alongside Hilary Swank, and the biopic Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013) where he played Sergeant James Gregory. On stage he continued to garner acclaim, winning a Naledi Theatre Award for his lead in Death of a Colonialist (2010) and delivering memorable performances in The Great Outdoors and The Fire Raisers. Off‑screen, he was married to fellow actress Camilla Waldman, with whom he shared a son, Hector, before their divorce. Bartlett’s sudden death from cardiac arrest on 23 May 2022 at the age of 55 was mourned by colleagues and fans alike, marking the loss of one of South Africa’s most respected and dynamic performers.