Hollywood actor Richard T. Jones has expressed his deep affection for South Africa, considering it as a potential retirement destination for himself and his wife. Jones, known for his roles in TV series such as Judging Amy and The Rookie, made his first appearance at Comic Con Africa on Friday, 25 September. The event, which took place in Johannesburg, drew thousands of attendees and featured a range of pop culture and gaming activities. Jones described South Africa as "magnificent" and its people as "welcoming in a way that feels like family".
Jones' three-decade career in Hollywood has spanned a wide range of roles, including appearances in Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, Hawaii Five-O, and Narcos. During his interview with The Citizen at Comic Con Africa, Jones reflected on his acting process, highlighting the importance of introspection and connection with the characters he portrays. He emphasized that acting requires focus and intentionality, involving a deep dive into one's own emotions and experiences.
Jones and his wife have fallen in love with several South African cities, including Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Hermanus. He expressed his enthusiasm for the country, stating that they "love everything about everything" and are "definitely going to end up here". Jones' affection for South Africa extends to its people, whom he believes are known for their love and pride in their country. He noted that every time he visits South Africa, he feels a sense of welcome and belonging.
When asked about his interests outside of acting, Jones revealed that he has recently become a football fan, supporting Real Madrid and appreciating the Spanish style of play. He attributed his newfound interest in the sport to watching the World Cup, which helped him understand the game better. Jones also acknowledged that he doesn't watch rugby, but is enjoying his new hobby.
Jones' appearance at Comic Con Africa was part of a star-studded lineup that included voice actors from Rick and Morty, X-Men '97, and God of War's Christopher Judge. The event celebrated creativity and fandom, cementing Johannesburg's reputation as the continent's pop culture capital. For Jones, the highlight of the event was connecting with South Africans and feeling a sense of community.
Jones emphasized that his experience in South Africa has been consistently positive, with the people and their warm hospitality making him feel at home. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to connect with fans and like-minded individuals, stating that it's "reassuring to know that every time I come here, I feel at home". This sense of belonging has contributed to his decision to consider retiring in South Africa.
As Comic Con Africa 2026 came to a close, Jones' appearance at the event has left a lasting impression on attendees and fans. His enthusiasm for South Africa and its people has inspired many, and his potential retirement in the country has generated excitement among fans. With its mix of celebrity appearances, immersive experiences, and fan-driven panels, Comic Con Africa continues to be a premier event for pop culture enthusiasts.
Key points
- Richard T. Jones considers retiring in South Africa due to its people and culture.
- Jones has fallen in love with several South African cities, including Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Hermanus.
- The actor's appearance at Comic Con Africa highlighted his connection with South Africans and his enthusiasm for the country's pop culture scene.
