Stella Dlangalala (lady e)

GQ: How did playing lady e differ from acting you’ve done before?

Stella Dlangalala: When I first auditioned for the character, I was nervous because her main dancing style is Pantusula, and I wasn’t good at it. After I got the part, I had to learn it. I watched Youtube videos, and the production team brought in a choreographer to help me. It was completely new; the footwork is intricate and fast.

GQ: What did it mean to you to be part of an all-female cast that highlights camaraderie between women and dancing as an art form?

SD: Someone asked me how I felt when

I found out I’d got the part, and I told them it felt like I’d been waiting in a long queue, then someone called my number, and it was my turn. It’s my first television role, it’s global, and to have this opportunity with other Black women on the rise is mind-blowing. Five Black women in lead roles on a global platform? You don’t see that often. I love how Netflix is giving new faces an opportunity.

GQ: tell us about your most challenging scene. How about the one where you’re dancing on the floor?

SD: That scene wasn’t necessarily challenging, but there was a lot of pressure because it was the first time I danced in the series. I had to keep up with Pantsula dancers and make my first appearance memorable.

GQ: What do you want viewers to remember most about the series?

SD: Don’t give up, no matter how long it takes or how painful or uncertain it is.