Government doesn't care about artists - Comedian Marc Lottering

Well-known South African comedian Marc Lottering has spoken out about the current state of what artists are going through. 

Lottering has made it clear that there is a lack of support to artists from the government during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Entertainers and actors reliant on live performances have especially been under strain since venues have had to close earlier due to the curfew and venue capacity limitations under adjusted lockdown level 3.

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Artists had no work under the level 4 lockdown when many venues ceased operation for the duration of it.

Lottering took aim at the government for not offering support for artists who relied on theatre venues.

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“Spare a thought for many singers, comedians, actors, dancers, musicians. Those who rely on live theatre to survive. Many have not received an income in two years. Government does not seem to give a sh**.”

This is not the first time the government has been called on to support local artists.

Despite her status as a legend in the South African television, theatre, and film industry, actress Shaleen Surtie-Richards died without being able to afford private hospital treatment.

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The iconic actress died in a guesthouse in Cape Town.

Fellow actor and friend Lizz Meiring said the havoc wrought on the sector by COVID-19 forced Surtie-Richards to cancel her medical aid.

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“Millions of South Africans had to let go of their medical funds during the COVID-19 pandemic and Shaleen was also affected. She was a professional, so she was at Cape Town, and our mutual friend took her to the hospital as she was ill.

“The doctor wanted to book her into the hospital immediately but she couldn’t get help because she had no money."

Meiring added: “I don’t see this as an indictment against government hospitals they are excellent and have people doing excellent work, but now we are sitting with a 66-year-old who has severe diabetes, lung problems and hospitals are overrun with COVID patients (and) now we are sitting with a woman who already has compromised immune system.”

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Surtie-Richards is only one of a long list of prominent South Africans to die without much money to their name.

Meiring believes the situation could have been avoided if the amendment of the Performers Protection Amendment Bill was signed into law.

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Image Credit: Instagram/ Marc Lottering