One of the most challenging things about Thembi Seete’s role on Showmax’s Adulting was filming intimacy scenes.
The award-winning actress, who has been in the entertainment industry for almost three decades, is one of the new additions on Adulting season two.
The 46-year-old Seete plays the character of Portia, a housewife who has everything she wants but is not spoiled enough.
“My intimate scenes have never been this intimate. It really felt like it was my first time acting and that’s the beauty about acting,” said Seete.
“You can’t really say you’re comfortable with it because acting introduces you to different characters and different personalities. The things you get to do are always different.”
She said the role came with a whole lot of things that shook her and made her uncomfortable. However, she enjoys being uncomfortable.
Rich and glamorous lady
The Boom Shaka group member said her role on Adulting is different from others she has played before, saying she has never played a rich, spoiled and glamorous lady.
“It’s always been township-based and I would like to believe that Portia also has a township background, because I kind of brought in that element as well.
“That’s the only part where I felt like this character is bringing something new.”
She agreed to portray Portia because she has always wanted to work with Tshedza Pictures, and believes the production company always tells exceptional stories.
“There comes a point in life when you get tired of playing it safe. You sort of want to stretch yourself a bit and kind of surprise yourself.
“I love the element of surprising myself and not being too comfortable with the things that I do. I know a lot of people will be like: ‘Thembi seems like she’s very strict with herself and she’s a good role model’.
“But, why are we so scared to talk about sex? Why are we scared to talk about intimacy?”
When comparing Thembi and Portia, she believes they are similar because they are both sexy, are the bomb, likers of things and both go all out to achieve what they want.
Maintaining the consistency
After being in the industry for almost 30 years, Seete shared that she manages to maintain consistency with every role by opening herself to learning more.
“I explore different elements of each character I portray. It’s possible to bring Gladys [from Gomora] into Portia if I don’t do my homework or if I’m not intentional about my moves.
“So, I have to consistently approach my work as a student, all the time, and remain open to learning.”
Seete said she was exposed to a lot of things for the first time while shooting, adding that she was lucky to be paired with Luthando BU Mthembu, who portrays Vuyani.
“He made me so comfortable, so I don’t think about myself too much. That’s the beauty of acting, it allows you to forget about yourself and to wear this character,” she said.
“I was able to put Thembi aside and be about Portia. But it’s also a blessing and a cherry on top when you have a co-actor who is as supportive and confident.”
Adulting season two will premier on Showmax on December 4, with new episodes every Monday.
