Brand ambassador and beloved actress Linda Mtoba has spoken out about the surprisingly low compensation that South African actors receive.
The former Isibaya star disclosed in an Instagram post that the demanding nature of acting has a high personal cost and little financial return.
Mtoba revealed that, despite her love for acting, actors frequently have to spend long hours away from their families on sets, making it a labour of love that requires difficult sacrifices.
“Even when you are off, you are too tired because you work Saturday to Saturday, two times a month, which means you only have two weekends off,” said Mtoba.
“I leave home at 5am, and I come back at 7pm. You leave home while it’s still dark and come back at night, most days.”
According to Mtoba, who played Nomonde on Mzansi Magic’s The River, the money she earns from acting is equivalent to what she would make in a one-day content shoot.
Brand work brings more money
“I will be honest about that; when it comes to the financial part of it, it’s great, and it’s for you as an actor to be out there on screens, TV and things like that, but it is not for financial gain. I earn most of my money from brand work, rather than from acting.
“The brand work definitely brings home the whole pay,” she said.
In recent years, a number of South African actors have publicly discussed their financial difficulties, frequently bringing attention to the difficulties of maintaining a career in the entertainment sector.
Known for his Backstage role, Carlo Radebe has experienced extreme financial hardship, which has led to homelessness.
Reports state that he relies on an R350 government grant after losing his job.
Gcina Mkhize, a former Isibaya actress facing eviction due to financial difficulties, publicly appealed for help from South Africans.
She later conveyed appreciation for the contributions she received.
