N!xau Toma was a Namibian actor best known for his role as Xi in the 1980 classic film The Gods Must Be Crazy. He was a member of the San (Bushmen) people and his portrayal of a Kalahari bushman who encounters modern technology and Western society for the first time became iconic. Despite his global fame from the film, N!xau led a simple life and remained connected to his San roots.
Early Life
N!xau Toma was born around 1944 in Namibia, though his exact birth date remains uncertain. He grew up as a hunter-gatherer in the Kalahari Desert, a way of life central to the San people. His early life was marked by isolation from modern technology, making his character in The Gods Must Be Crazy reflective of his lived experiences. His tribe was accustomed to a traditional lifestyle, with limited exposure to money or other conveniences of modern life.
Career and Fame
N!xau became famous almost overnight when The Gods Must Be Crazy was released in 1980. The film's story revolved around a Coca-Cola bottle that falls from an airplane and disrupts the peaceful life of a Kalahari bushman. N!xau’s character, Xi, sets off to return the "evil thing" to the gods, leading to a series of comedic misadventures.
Despite its comedic tone, the film raised awareness about the San people's lifestyle and the contrasts between traditional and modern cultures. N!xau's natural acting, despite having no formal training, brought authenticity to the role and endeared him to global audiences. He reprised his role in sequels such as The Gods Must Be Crazy II (1989), further boosting his fame.
Life After Fame
Although N!xau became an international star, he remained somewhat detached from the trappings of wealth and fame. When he was first paid for The Gods Must Be Crazy, he did not fully understand the value of money, reportedly letting his first payment blow away in the wind. Afterward, he learned about the monetary system and negotiated a higher salary for the sequels.
N!xau spent much of his life farming and living traditionally. Despite his success in film, he preferred a modest lifestyle, raising cattle and crops. His fame brought him some wealth, but he continued to live close to the land and his community.
Death
N!xau passed away in 2003 at the age of 59, reportedly from tuberculosis, although some reports suggest he succumbed to complications from multiple illnesses. His passing marked the end of a unique life that bridged the gap between traditional San culture and the modern world.
Legacy
N!xau's legacy is a blend of comedic genius and cultural representation. While his films were enjoyed for their humor, they also highlighted the rich traditions and struggles of indigenous people like the San. He remains a beloved figure in both Namibian culture and international cinema, remembered for his humble nature and the authenticity he brought to his roles.
His performance in The Gods Must Be Crazy has had a lasting cultural impact, both for its comedic value and for introducing global audiences to the lives of the San people.
Meet N!xau Toma, the Legendary Namibian Actor