Al (Alec) Debbo (22 June 1924 – 13 July 2011)
Al Debbo, born Alec Debbo to Lebanese parents on June 22, 1924, in Bloemfontein, South Africa, was a great comedian, singer, and actor who made an unforgettable contribution to Afrikaner music and culture. Despite his Lebanese origin, Debbo adopted Afrikaans as his native language at a young age due to its popularity in his hometown.
Debbo began his childhood by helping his parents run their general merchandise store while immersing himself in the languages of his background. Although he first chose a career as a plumber after completing his education, his innate ability for comedy and singing could not be denied. His humorous ability was evident from a young age, as he frequently entertained audiences at school performances.
Debbo’s life changed dramatically in 1947 when, on a whim, he entered a statewide talent competition and won, capturing the attention of the entertainment business. This led to his first film part in “Die Kaskenades van Dokter Kwak,” a small cameo that propelled him to national prominence.
Debbo rose to prominence in South African cinema, appearing in nearly twenty films over the course of six decades. Notable films include “Alles Sal Regkom,” “Dis Lekker om te Lewe,” and “Donker Afrika,” the latter of which he regarded his masterpiece. His last film performance was in 2004’s “Oh Schuks… I’m Gatvol.”
Aside from his success on the silver screen, Debbo achieved musical acclaim with his rendition of “Hasie” in 1968, which became a runaway hit. He went on to release eleven music albums, showcasing his versatility as both a singer and entertainer.
Debbo received various distinctions throughout his career, including the Comics Choice Awards lifetime achievement award in 2011, which recognised his vital contributions to South Africa’s entertainment industry.
Debbo’s life was tragically cut short on July 13, 2011, when he died of a lung infection and a heart ailment at the Bloemfontein Medi-Clinic, aged 87. His legacy continues on through his timeless contributions to Afrikaner music, cinema, and humour, ensuring that he remains a popular figure in South African culture for future generations.