Patrick Shai was born on December 9, 1956 in Sophiatown, South Africa. He was an actor and director, known for Hearts & Minds (1995), Cry, the Beloved Country (1995) and 7de Laan (2000). He was previously married to Mmasechaba Shai. He died on January 22, 2022 in Dobsonville, South Africa

He started career as a dancer at Safari Ranch with Mzumba African Drama and Ballet. In 1994, he joined with the cast of drama serial Soul City, for which he won the Avanti Trophy for Best Actor at the NTVA Avanti Awards in 2000. In 1995, he wrote and acted in the film Hearts & Minds by playing the role "Mathews Kage". He later won the Silver Dolphin Award for Best Screenplay at the Festróia - Tróia International Film Festival. In 1996, he also played the role of "Christmas" in the 1996 BBC mini-series Rhodes.

He was known for his kind and gentle spirit, always ready to lend a helping hand and offer a listening ear. He was a beacon of light, inspiring others to be the best they can be.

Patrick was loved and will be deeply missed by his wife, parents, siblings, and friends.