Hollywood actor Richard T. Jones has revealed that South Africa has made such a strong impression on him that he and his wife are considering eventually making the country their permanent home.
The American star, widely recognised for his role as Sergeant Wade Grey in The Rookie and Mike in Tyler Perry’s Why Did I Get Married? films, made the revelation during his first visit to South Africa.
Jones was in Johannesburg for Comic Con Africa, which took place from 24 to 27 September 2026, and appeared to be captivated by the country beyond the convention itself.
Hollywood Star Says Retirement Plans Are Changing
Speaking to The Citizen during the event, Jones was particularly open about the possibility of retiring in South Africa.
“I love South Africa,” he said, explaining that the country had become a serious consideration for him and his wife.
But Jones quickly suggested that the idea was moving beyond a casual conversation.
“Not considering, she’s like, we’re moving this up,” he added.
His comments suggest that his wife is equally enthusiastic about the prospect of relocating, potentially turning a holiday visit into the beginning of a much bigger life decision.
Johannesburg, Cape Town And Hermanus Make Strong Impression
Jones also revealed that several South African destinations had particularly captured his attention.
Johannesburg, Cape Town and Hermanus were among the places he singled out after experiencing the country during his visit.
The actor also praised the people he encountered, highlighting what he described as a strong sense of community and national pride among South Africans.
For Jones, that personal connection appears to have been just as significant as the scenery and attractions.
Comic Con Africa Gave Jones A Different Experience
Although Jones arrived in South Africa as an international celebrity guest, the actor indicated that the people he encountered were one of the most memorable aspects of the trip.
According to Briefly News, the warmth shown to him by South African fans and locals left a lasting impression.
The 2026 edition of Comic Con Africa attracted around 70,000 visitors and featured 303 exhibitors, bringing together entertainment personalities and fans from across the country and beyond.
Jones was among a high-profile international lineup that included Christopher Judge, known for Stargate SG-1 and as the voice of Kratos in God of War, as well as Alison Sealy-Smith, famous for voicing Storm in X-Men: The Animated Series.
Richard T. Jones Joins Growing List Of Stars Praising South Africa
Jones is not the only international celebrity to speak warmly about South Africa after spending time in the country.
Raven-Symoné, who has been in South Africa while filming Cheetah Girls: Next Gen, has also spoken positively about her experience and the welcome she received.
The latest comments from Jones add to a growing stream of international celebrities publicly expressing their appreciation for the country.
A Hollywood Star Could Soon Call South Africa Home
For now, Jones has not announced a formal relocation, but his remarks indicate that South Africa has become a serious possibility for the next chapter of his life.
Whether he ultimately chooses Johannesburg, Cape Town, Hermanus or another part of the country remains to be seen.
For an actor visiting South Africa for the first time, however, the fact that he is already discussing retirement there suggests his experience has made a considerably deeper impression than a typical celebrity trip.
