Heartbreaking Revelation: Ian von Memerty Shares Agony of Telling Family About Assisted Death Plan

South African entertainment legend Ian von Memerty has left fans stunned after opening up about his decision to pursue assisted euthanasia — and the emotional moment he told his family.

Yes, you read that right.

The beloved theatre icon and former Strictly Come Dancing SA co-host has confirmed that he plans to end his life on his own terms. And according to Ian, the most painful part wasn’t making the decision — it was breaking the news to the people he loves most.

Ian von Memerty on Breaking Euthanasia News to Family

Speaking candidly on his Facebook web series, Dying for a Better Life, Ian peeled back the curtain on what he calls one of the most devastating days of his life.

The veteran performer — married to former Latin and ballroom dancer Vivian Lawrence — is a father to Oscar and Kasvia. The couple also tragically lost their daughter, Valeska, in 1998 to a rare illness.

Ian revealed that he carried the weight of his decision privately for months, waiting until his children could all be together before sharing his plans.

When the moment finally came, it was raw. Emotional. Unfiltered.

He described weeping in front of them, giving them full permission to say anything they felt — no censorship, no tiptoeing. There were tears. There was pleading. There were questions no parent ever wants to answer.

He admitted that choosing to say goodbye — while still “healthy, happy and relatively sane” — was agonising. Yet, he believes it is the “least harmful” choice for himself and ultimately for those closest to him.

Let that sink in.

He says he loves his family deeply — but not enough to continue living a life he no longer wants. That statement alone has set social media ablaze.

Assisted Euthanasia: “I Am Not Suicidal”

Before anyone jumps to conclusions, Ian insists this is not an impulsive or mental health crisis-driven decision.

According to him, doctors, counsellors and even a psychiatrist challenged his choice. They disagreed. They questioned him. They pushed back hard.

But Ian says they also recognised something important — this was not the mindset of someone in despair. He claims he felt calm. Clear. Certain.

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Family and close friends reportedly tried everything to change his mind. There were arguments. Begging. Emotional appeals. Yet he says that over time, they began to see the sense of control and peace he feels about directing his final chapter.

And he’s not leaving chaos behind.

Ian has already put meticulous plans in place:

• Wills drafted
• Finances simplified
• Medical aid accounts separated
• Personal belongings distributed

He says he does not want his loved ones burdened with sorting out his affairs.

As for what happens after? He hopes his body will be donated to medical science. And in a move that may surprise some, he shared that his family does not believe in holding funerals.

The exact date and location of the assisted euthanasia remain private.

South Africa is divided. Some are calling his decision brave and empowering. Others believe it’s heartbreaking and controversial.

But one thing is certain: Ian von Memerty has once again taken centre stage — this time in the most personal production of his life.

Is this an act of courage, control and dignity? Or is it a decision that raises uncomfortable ethical questions?