John Kani’s illness halts him from furthering as the lead actor in August Wilson’s Fences.

The legend says he has only stopped playing the lead role but will continue in the production of the movie.

“It is with great sadness that I have to announce I will be stepping down from the role of Troy Maxon in August Wilson’s Fences. It is a role I have long dreamed of playing.

“However, a bout of vertigo and the concurrent imbalance it causes is precluding me from stepping on stage in this demanding role. I will, however, continue to play a significant role as a co-producer and continue to be part of the rehearsals working closely with the director and the cast.

“I am delighted to advise that the director has chosen highly talented and experienced actor Tumisho Masha to succeed me in the role. I have no doubt Tumisho will do great justice to this challenging part — as I would have done.

“I would like to wish the director, the cast, the designers, and the crew great success in staging this exciting work. I am sure I shall recover from this temporary medical condition and be back at work again soon,” he said.