Kaapse Klopse community mourns the loss of legendary showman Luigi de Klerk

The Kaapse Klopse community has been plunged into mourning following the death of Luigi de Klerk, a legendary figure in Cape Town's iconic minstrel tradition.

Luigi, known for his showmanship and contributions to the cultural heritage of the Cape, passed away on Saturday.

Known for his lekker sế-goed (popular phrases) on the microphone at many competitions such as the voice of the Klopse over the years, tributes have been pouring in from far and wide.

Hailing from Bridgetown, Luigi often filled the Athlone Stadium with his energy and humour and kept fans entertained during the Klopse season.

Sadly, Luigi died on Saturday as a preview of the Kaapse Klopse Karnival Association (KKKA) was held in Kenilworth, casting a shadow on the rest of this year’s build-up to Cape Town Minstrel Carnival on Tweede Nuwejaar (January 2 2026).

Luigi’s sister, Sandra de Klerk, said that he died in the early hours of Saturday morning after falling into a diabetic coma last Monday after a long illness and developing hypoxia in the brain.

She said: “He wasn’t well this year and his health deteriorated. “Last Monday he fell into a diabetic coma at home.

“After a long wait, the paramedics immediately incubated him and rushed him to hospital.

“They admitted him to ICU. But the following day, they told the family that things are not looking good and extubated him. He survived until Saturday morning 2.15am.”

Sandra added that the family planned to have his funeral next Monday at St Georges Anglican Church in Silvertown.

Luigi is survived by his wife Geraldine and his stepdaughter following the deaths of the couple’s children.

Sandra said that Luigi was involved with the Klopse until the week before slipping into the coma, having hosted a marching band competition in Paarl the preceding Wednesday.

Innie Kaap paid tribute to the MC, saying: “A legend has fallen! The iconic MC, Mr. Luigi De Klerk has passed on. He was much loved, and will always be fondly remembered.

“If you’re gooooooood, you’re gooooooooood…”And YOU, were GREAT, Luigi! Rest softly. Condolences to the family, and all who love him. As per Luigi... “I thank you”!

Kaapse Klopse Karnival Association director Muneeb Gambeno said: “The passing of Luigi is a sad moment for the Klopse community.

“Whilst he stopped working as an MC at the carnival events about nine years ago, he remained well-loved for his showmanship. “Our sincerest condolences to his family and all those who loved him.”

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Cape Argus