When the show ended [in October 2023], Zodwa was one of the leads – that’s the plan I have for Phindi. I’m going to make her memorable even though she’s quite timid than how Zodwa was. Phindi is from a rural area. She’s a typical “Jimmy comes to Joburg”. But she’s fixated on something more important, her vengeance against a man who abused her back in the day. She’s angry and is coming to ruin that man’s soft life.
How was your first day on set?
My call-time was 9am, but I was already on set at 7am, that’s how excited I was. I was excited to see Rapulana Seiphemo [Tau Mogale] and Vusi Kunene [Jack Mabaso]. All the cast were welcoming and warm, they all came to greet me – I felt like a celebrity. It’s as though I’ve found a new family similar to the one I had on Gomora.
What is your biggest takeaway from this role?
Being a mother of seven, I found parts of myself in Phindi. I know how it feels to have a man treat you badly, I know how it feels to be disappointed by someone’s actions – so, all those emotions, I poured them into Phindi because that’s what she’s going through. I’ve always wanted a role similar to who I am because of the unanswered questions I have.
Questions such as: “Why me?”, and so far, Phindi is helping me see the reasons. I think viewers are going to fall in love with Phindi.
How was life after Gomora?
Life wasn’t too bad, I collaborated with MultiChoice on a few gigs and I got a role on a Mzansi Magic production. Getting to this point wasn’t easy. I would often look down on myself because I didn’t think I was educated enough or I failed at my marriage, life felt stagnant at times but things have opened up way beyond what I expected. I know I’m not there yet but I can safely say, I can see where I’m going.
What are your hopes and dreams?
To one day have an academy that helps equip and up-skill young aspirant actors. To show them that there’s more to acting, from behind the scenes work to production. l’d also like to empower women who think they’ve lost all hope.