Award-winning actor Siyabonga Thwala, famous for his role of Mpiyakhe on Mzansi Magic’s axed telenovela Isibaya, will star in a new series.
Thwala has won Best Actor SAFTAs for his iconic roles as Mpiyakhe on Isibaya (which also earned him a Royalty Soapie Award). Also as Vusi Zwane on Scandal!, and Musa on Intersexions. He’s also a fan-favourite from the likes of eHostela, The River, and The Republic.
Long acting career
Thwala started his acting career in 1989 but made his screen acting debut in the 1996 made-for-TV movie Born Free: A New Adventure.
In the same year, he played a cameo in an episode of the television series Tarzan: The Epic Adventures titled Tarzan and the Scarlet Diamond.
Then in 1998, he was offered the role of Godlieb Mofokeng in the new SABC 3 soap opera Isidingo. However, he turned it down as he felt he was not ready for a long-term commitment to television.
Shortly after, he was cast on the TV sitcom Streaks, based on a Cape Town hair salon. Here he acted alongside now veteran actor Themba Ndaba. In 2003 he was cast in the recurring role of Jimmy on Gazlam.
Thwala will star as Bhodoza, a prominent businessman and political stalwart, in the new Showmax 52-episode series Empini.
Excited about new role
Empini is set in the dangerous world of the private VIP security industry.
Speaking of his role, Thwala said he has played many roles in his career, but is particularly excited about his role in Empini. He said it will showcase the many facets of himself as a performer.
“This role has stretched me tremendously, mentally and physically. It is not just another show. It is a production that will showcase the high quality content local productions continue to offer.
“From the cast to the crew, each and every person on set has shown so much passion and drive. This ensures that Empini is viewed as a production of a high quality. It is a project that I pride myself on being a part of,” said Thwala.
Empini will premiere on Showmax from May 23 2024.
