‘Scandal’ Daweti’s dream realised
AYANDA DAWETI describes his new role on one of South Africa’s most watched soaps, Scandal, as a “dream come true”.
The 26-year-old Daweti plays a character by the name of Chumani, an intense and passionate 19-yearold who is well dressed and incredibly earnest in his dealings.
“I’ve been waiting for a role like this for a long time now and I’m so excited I got it. I actually didn’t audition initially for this role, but the Scandal casting directors saw my audition on tape and called me in for the part. It’s such a dream come true,” said Daweti.
He entered the soap as Siseko and Boniswa Langa’s son who comes to Johannesburg, with his sister, Xolile, from the Eastern Cape, to be with their father.
He is an honest and academically gifted young man who wants to make it in the world on his own steam.
His wealthy background is something that he constantly plays down, as he does not want those around him to think his success has been brought. Chumani’s main goal is to make a difference in the world, but many obstacles await him in the world of Scandal.
Although Daweti says that his personality differs drastically from the character he plays on screen, he did a lot of research to make sure he pulls it off easily.
“I was born in the township, wasn’t that bright at school and life was different for me, so in order to perfect my role and make it believable, I went a school in Randburg and hung around pupils who I thought had the same intelligence and personality as my character. I learnt a lot from them and understood where they came from – that’s the beauty of acting,” he said.
He said being on set with the legends he grew up watching was unreal for him.
“My first day on set was surreal – I was shaking. I used to watch all these people and now here I am learning so much from them. They’re great to work with and are always happy to give tips about the craft,” he said.
Viewers can look forward to seeing Daweti on Scandal for the next year. And in that time he hopes that his name will be considered among Mzansi’s greatest actors.
“Chumani is a favourite among the ladies. And although I acted in a few soaps before, no one noticed me. Through Scandal, I have attracted so much attention. It’s crazy, I am not used to it. A few times I’ve seen people whispering on the streets and pointing fingers at me. It’s really overwhelming but I’m starting to love it,” said Daweti.
He said that once he has gained experience and if his contract with Scandal isn’t renewed, he would love to start acting in local movies.
“I always wanted to play the underdog role. It must be an authentic role that people can relate to. This is just the start for me,” he said.
Ayanda is also passionate about uplifting his community.
“I run a community development programme called Imbizo Emakhaya that promotes local talent in sports, entrepreneurship and the arts,” he said.
Catch Ayanda Daweti as Chumani on Scandal, weekdays at 7.30pm.