Richard T. Jones falls for SA: Hollywood star eyes retirement here after Comic Con Africa debut

Hollywood actor Richard T. Jones says South Africa has captured his heart so deeply that he and his wife are seriously considering retiring here.

Jones made his first appearance at Comic Con Africa on Friday, 25 September.

Thousands attended the ultimate pop culture and gaming festival, which kicked off on Thursday, with Saturday’s tickets completely sold out.

Career

Jones’ three‑decade career spans roles in Judging Amy, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, Hawaii Five‑O, Narcos, and his current role as Sergeant Wade Grey in The Rookie.

Speaking to The Citizen at Comic Con Africa, Jones described the country as “magnificent” and its people as “welcoming in a way that feels like family.”

“Love South Africa. South Africa is probably a place that me and my wife are considering retiring. Not considering – she’s like, we’re moving this up,” Jones said with a laugh.

Falling in love with SA

He added that they had fallen in love with Johannesburg, Cape Town and Hermanus, and were now deciding where to settle.

“We love everything about everything. We’re definitely going to end up here.”

Acting

Jones reflected on his acting process.

“You’re always trying to find a place in you that can connect to the character, or a place you’ve seen in other people. It’s introspective – you nitpick at yourself, but you also embrace what the writer is trying to bring across. It takes focus and intentionality.”

South African people

Asked what stood out most about South Africa, Jones didn’t hesitate.

“Just the people. Countries are really known by their people. One thing about South Africa – the people just love not only each other, but they love their country. Every time I get off a plane here, I’m welcomed like people have known me for years. It’s amazing.”

While Jones admitted he doesn’t watch rugby, he said he has recently become a football fan.

“I just got into soccer – football. I like Real Madrid right now; I like the Spanish style of play. Watching the World Cup this year helped me understand the sport better. I wasn’t a big fan before, but now I am. I’m actually watching the games a lot more.”

Stars

Jones’s appearance at Comic Con Africa was part of a star‑studded lineup that included voice actors from Rick and Morty and X‑Men ’97 and God of War’s Christopher Judge among others.

For Jones, though, the highlight was connecting with South Africans.

“It’s reassuring to know that every time I come here, I feel at home. That’s why we’re planning to make this our home for good.”

With its mix of celebrity appearances, immersive experiences, and fan‑driven panels, Comic Con Africa 2026 was an unmissable celebration of creativity and fandom, cementing Johannesburg as the continent’s pop culture capital.