Lazarus ‘Gringo’ Boora was an exceptional Zimbabwean actor whose comedic talent brought joy and laughter to audiences across the nation. Renowned for his portrayal of the lead character in the popular drama series ‘Gringo,’ Boora’s contribution to the entertainment industry has left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.
Born on October 18, 1973, in the village of Rukweza in Rusape, Lazarus Boora’s journey to stardom began in his early years. He attended Rukweza Primary School and Glen View Number Two Primary Schools for his primary education before pursuing his secondary education at Tafara High School in Mabvuku. Boora’s passion for drama led him to further his education at Mutare Teachers’ College and the University of Zimbabwe, where he honed his skills in theater and dance.
Tribute to Lazarus ‘Gringo’ Boora – A Legend in Zimbabwean Comedy
Boora’s acting career took flight during his time in primary school when he joined various theatrical clubs in Mabvuku. His talent and dedication soon saw him becoming a part of the Avondale-based Reps Theatre, where he continued to flourish as an actor. He later joined the marketing company, The People’s Roadshow, where he utilized his skills in short plays, sketches, and DJing to connect with audiences on a deeper level.
In 1996, fate brought Lazarus Boora together with Enock Chihombori, the cartoonist behind the character ‘Gringo.’ Chihombori penned a television script based on the character, and Boora was chosen to bring ‘Gringo’ to life. Without even auditioning, Boora’s previous acting prowess earned him the lead role in the series. His portrayal of ‘Gringo’ captivated audiences and catapulted him to fame. He continued to portray the beloved character in subsequent series, including ‘Gringo Ndiani’ (2001), ‘Gringo Mari iripi’ (2003), and ‘Gringo-Troublemaker’ (2013), the latter being a feature film.
Boora’s exceptional talent did not go unnoticed, and he was honored with the Best Actor award at the inaugural National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA) in 2002. His ability to bring characters to life with sincerity and humor endeared him to fans and critics alike.
Beyond his own success, Boora’s legacy extends to his son, Taurai Boora, who followed in his father’s footsteps and ventured into the arts. Displaying remarkable acting skills and impressive footwork, Taurai Boora showcased his talent. However, due to the challenges of financial returns within the industry, Gringo made the difficult decision to discourage his son from pursuing acting.
Throughout his life, Lazarus Boora encountered his share of health challenges. In October 2020, he battled tesnel or intestine obstruction, which caused discomfort and various difficulties. Despite undergoing appendix surgery in 2019 and retreating to his rural home in Rusape, he returned to Harare to be with his wife and children. Tragically, his condition worsened in November 2020, as he was unable to afford the necessary medical treatment.
It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to Lazarus ‘Gringo’ Boora, who passed away on November 9, 2020, at Westview Hospital in Zimre Park, Ruwa. His legacy as a veteran comedian and his contribution to Zimbabwean entertainment will forever be cherished. Lazarus Boora’s ability to bring laughter and happiness to countless lives will continue to resonate, reminding us of the enduring power of comedy and the impact of a truly talented performer.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
