Lee Visagie
What’s going on in your favourite actor’s head?
Where there’s trouble, Isidingo’s (1998- current; see p9) newest matriculant Anja (Lee Visagie) is sure to follow. It’s just under a year since the teen and her family moved into The Deep but in that time they’ve seen more ups and downs than a rollercoaster, like Anja lying about her exam results and falling for playboys in mid-Feb. Lee on the other hand has nothing to hide when it comes to her TV world, including one or two blush-worthy admissions in her Quickfire answers…
What was the first TV show you acted out with friends?
The Power Rangers! We had the most epic Power Ranger missions when our cousins came to play. Of course my sister Caelen and I first had to argue over who got to be the Pink Ranger.
Who was your first TV crush?
A character named Rocky (Michael Treanor) from 1992 comedy movie 3 Ninjas. His big blue eyes made me watch the movie over and over again. [Laughs]
What did you do when an “adult” moment came on while you were watching TV with family?
I just pretended that I wasn’t uncomfortable by sitting still. And, of course, praying for the scene to pass.
What item/product have you wanted ever since you saw it on TV?
Non-stick pots and pans! No matter what you cook, there’s no scrubbing afterwards. I’m not the biggest fan of washing dishes.
Whose TV wardrobe do you want?
Definitely Aria Montgomery’s (Lucy Hale) from drama Pretty Little Liars (2010-2017). She has a unique, edgy style; there is a softness to her look because she wears skirts and dresses, but she’s a little rebellious. Just like me!
Whose TV house would you love to live in?
I’m binge-viewing Friends (1994-2004), so Rachel and Monica’s (Jennifer Aniston and Courteney Cox) apartment. I love the cosy open-plan layout.
What shows are you fanatical about now?
Pretty Little Liars and fantasy series The Vampire Diaries (2009-2017) and Game Of Thrones (2011- current) – the unexpected twists keep me guessing.
If you worked behind the scenes, which job would you want and why?
A make-up artist. It’s amazing how make-up can transform an actor into a character, how it boosts confidence and changes someone’s appearance completely.
What is one of your favourite plot twists from a show?
Shoo! There are so many. One that haunts me to this day was when Ned Stark (Sean Bean) was killed in season 1 of Game Of Thrones. Who saw that coming?
What is your nightmare scenario while filming?
Not being able to express the emotion that my character is experiencing because it would make the moment fake. And being at home in Pretoria and getting a call from the assistant director asking where I am. I’d hate to be late or miss my call times! [Isidingo films at Sasani Studios in Johannesburg]
With all the reboots happening, which series would you like to reboot and be part of?
Without a doubt The Office (2005-2013). I’d love to be part of a mockumentary because comedy is one of the hardest things to do – and now you have to look at the camera once in a while too. What an exciting challenge!
Your favourite TV icon is?
Johnny Depp, who started in TV (as Detective Hanson in action show 21 Jump Street, 19871990). He transforms into his characters so well. It’s one of my goals as an actor, to take the characters I play and make them unique.