Leon Schuster shares health update: ‘One more fall and I could die’

Leon Schuster has given the public an update on his deteriorating health, which he blames on a taxing career as a filmmaker and actor.

The beloved South African comedian is working on a new movie, set to be released via Netflix.

LEON SCHUSTER TALKS HEALTH

Speaking to SABC’s Leanne Manas, Leon Schuster reflected on his longstanding film career, for which he has received numerous accolades.

He also spoke about his ailing physical and mental health.

He said: “At least 70% of my health problems got to do with the fact that I worked too hard in my life – I made 17 moves and 30 CDs

“I made movie after move, and I got clapped and moered, and I fell back on my back, and I don’t care because I was young and was fit. 

Schuster – who revealed that he once played rugby for the Free State – shared that he now suffered from chronic neck pain and was in dire need of a hip replacement and another back surgery

He added: “Young people…you can take risks with money. That’s a different story. But don’t take risks with your body, which I did.

“I can’t take those claps anymore. One fall on my back and I can die.

“I’ve got to be wheels around the airport, because if I stand up for too long I get severe pain”.

NEW MOVIE LOADING

Appearing on the studio at KwaZulu-Natal digital radio station PlayZN last month, Leon Schuster said he was in Durban to work on the screenplay for an upcoming production.

When pressed for details, the beloved TV actor said, “I’m writing a movie now. We’ve got a contract from Netflix. It’s a very difficult movie, but I pitched the idea, and they liked it”

Referring to his ailing physical health, he continued: “I’m going to play it 50% in the wheelchair, because I can’t walk far with my back.

Schuster’s last movie was Mr Bones 3, released in 2024, during which he injured his back.

He revealed his new movie would also see him take on a character similar to his own personality