Grandad goes from tending livestock to TV star
Sivuka wants to shine spotlight on his Lusikisiki village
Just a few months ago, Lusikisiki grandfather Zamuxolo Sivuka did not know what words like “audition” or “monologue” meant.
As a rural village man, he spent most of his time tending to his livestock by day and occasionally watching television in the evenings. When his village chief told him in 2023 that a TV series was to be shot in their village and implored him to audition for a part, he was confused and apprehensive.
Fast-forward some months later, the 61-year-old is now part of a 13-part TV drama series being shot in and around Lusikisiki in Eastern Cape.
The series, written, produced and directed by Mthatha’s upcoming filmmaker and gospel artist Yongama Mrwetyana, is called Kwela Khaya (loosely translated as “in that home”).
Previously, Mrwetyana told Sowetan’s sister publication the Dispatch he wanted to shine a spotlight on Lusikisiki, which has recently been regarded as SA’s rape capital.
Fondly referred to as Khwetshube (his clan name) by those close to him, the Goso Forest villager said he was clueless about the world of professional acting before being cast in the series.
He thought acting on television was for highly educated people, and not rural people such as himself. “When I heard about the auditions [in October 2023], I was on my way to the home of our chief to discuss some matters pertaining to cows. He said I must go to the audition and try it out.” The rest is history.
He did not realise he was on camera when doing his audition and was shocked when he was told to stop.
He was even more shocked when he had a call-back from Mrwetyana informing him his audition was successful.
Sivuka said even when shooting started in 2024, there were many things he did not understand. The directors had to tell him to focus on the dialogue and not look at cameras.
His dream is to now become a TV star, he said, adding he was grateful to Mrwetyana and his crew for the opportunity they have given him.
Mrwetyana said “tata Sivuka” amazed them with his talent and natural ability in front of cameras.