Mash goes butch for soap
ACTOR, socialite and celebrity designer Iko Mash will appear on screen without a weave, earrings, stilettos and a bra for the first time in his career.
The openly gay Zabalaza actor, who was born Billy Mothola Mashiloane, plays both Zaza and Zachariah on the soapie.
Zaza is a gay hairstylist who is loud and knows other people’s business in the township.
Zachariah, who is yet to appear on screen, is a calculated and grounded gentleman.
The character is scheduled to debut towards the end of this month.
Mash said: “It’s the first time I will play a man in my life.
“It was difficult in the beginning because I’ve lived like a woman all my life.
“I am now comfortable in the role.
“The people I act alongside help bring the character to life because when you do scenes with the next person, it’s up to them to make you feel comfortable through guidance.
“Preparing for Zaza is simple because it’s what I have been doing all along. I just remind myself that I’m Iko. I live my life like it’s golden.
“I am not my sexuality, I can do a lot,
ke motho [I’m a human being].
“Preparing for Zachariah was challenging.
“I’ve had to come clean, without a weave. I was kind of heavy because I’ve never been without my earrings, stilettos and bra.
“This character made me grow and realise I’m more than my sexuality.
“I like to focus on one thing and do it to my full capacity before I go on to something else.
“I’m focused on playing this role to my full potential before I can talk about the future.
“Right now I’m happy and at the right place.”
Mash has previously appeared in the TV series Tshisa and Gaz’lam and used to co-present Selimathunzi.
Catch Zabalaza on Mzansi Magic from Mondays to Thursdays at 9pm. – mashotol@sowetan.co.za