Orlando Pirates Staunchest Supporter Goddwill “5 Skippas” Sithole Dies

The Orlando Pirates Football Club and all of South Africa are in mourning over the passing of Sphamandla Goodenough Sithole, also known as “5 Skippas,” who was dubbed the “staunchest fan” of the Buccaneers.

Although the reasons for his sudden demise have not yet been made public, sources close to his family have said that “5 Skipas” passed away on Friday, January 6, in the morning following a brief illness.

As soon as word of his passing spread, social media erupted with condolence messages from tens of thousands of Orlando Pirates supporters.

☠ We're saddened to learn of the passing of one of Orlando Pirates most active supporters Goodenough "5 Skipas" Sithole

Rest In Peace 5 Skipas🕊 You must like it for the Pirates 🙌🏻 pic.twitter.com/1SNSKuW7Sx

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— Sports Hub ZA (@SportsHub_ZA) January 6, 2023

Upon airing his infamous interview on DSTV’s Supersport channel in 2011, Mr. Sithole instantly became a household name.

He became the famous person he died as despite not speaking English well and dressing differently.

Following his interview, Sphamandla’s life was immediately altered. He received endorsements from DSTV after appearing in a DStv promotional advertisement, had a beer named “5 Skippas” launched under a well-known South African beer company, and even had a special lifetime contract with his favorite team, Orlando Pirates.

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His interview clips have gone viral up until this point, making him a household name in South Africa. Musicians like Cassper Nyovest and Zimbabwe’s DJ Cooperman, who worked with him on some of their songs, helped to increase his visibility.

Sithole who died in his 60s became a Pirates fan at the age of 12. He had been gracing each and every soccer match Pirates played while donned in unusual outfits that attracted many.

Watch some of the viral videos from Goodenough Sithole’s interviews;

Bab' Goodenough Sithole 👑 A trend setter & a die heart buccaneer..

5 skipas! ☠️💯❤️👌🏾 pic.twitter.com/q7moyM8YkA

— STAR. (@makwande_m) December 12, 2022

iHarare