Actress Keneilwe Matidze breaks down Youngins cast ahead of series' final season
On screen, Keneilwe brings to life the vibrant Life Orientation teacher Pearl, showcasing her acting prowess alongside her behind-the-scenes expertise.
With Season 3 of Youngins set to premiere on September 19th, anticipation is at an all-time high. As someone who understands both sides of the camera, Keneilwe offers unique insights into the characters viewers love and the talented actors who portray them.
Did you expect Youngins to become such a hit?
Honestly, yes! During auditions, the energy was electric. Kids showed up from 8am to 8pm, and despite the long hours, we all ended up dancing together outside. That vibe was infectious. I thought, 'If I were watching, I'd be hooked!' The talent was off the charts, and the story, as pitched by Tshedza Productions, promised something special. Everyone was fully invested.
Tumelo, played by Lebogang Lephotsoana, quickly became a fan favourite. What made him perfect for the role?
We needed triple threats – kids who could act, sing, and dance. Lebo was always dancing, full of life and positivity. Tumelo is the glue in the friendship group, and Lebo naturally fits that role. He's collaborative, contagious with his energy, and even helped me keep up with TikTok slang and dance moves! He started with raw talent and grew into a fantastic actor.
What about Mahlatse, played by Thabiso Ramotshela? His emotional depth stood out, especially in Season 2?
Thabiso's intensity matched Mahlatse's journey perfectly. It wasn't easy; he really dug deep to connect viewers with Mahlatse's raw, emotional story. He pushed himself so hard that I worried about him at times! But he was a trooper, and his dedication made Mahlatse's struggles feel real and relatable.
Supporting cast members like Tshepo (played by Tshepo Matlala) bring humour and heart. What drew you to him?
Tshepo is a theatre actor who uses his whole body to perform, head to toe. I often thought I'd be the teacher to younger actors, but Tshepo taught me so much! We rehearsed together off-set, exploring ways to elevate scenes beyond the script. He keeps me on my toes, always surprising me with fresh energy on camera.
Youngins is praised for queer representation. How did you approach casting Tabile Tau (Sefako) and Lebogang (Tumelo), given their different sexualities?
We worked hard on chemistry tests, but with Tabile and Lebo, the connection was natural. Intimacy on screen is tough for anyone, regardless of sexuality, but these two were open, comfortable, and committed to telling the story authentically. Their friendship and professionalism did all the heavy lifting.
Could Ayakha Ntunja (Amo) and Kealeboga Masango (Buhle) have swapped roles in the love triangle with Toka Matabane (Khaya)?
Nope! Ayakha naturally gives off the sweet, innocent vibe perfect for Amo, while Kea is vivacious and charismatic – headgirl energy! Toka was a no-brainer; he came in confidently singing at auditions, the quintessential popular boy everyone roots for.
How did the casting of best friends Alex (Katlego Moloke) and Palesa (Amogelang Telekelo) come about?
Katlego was one of the first kids I auditioned. He initially came in for the role of Tumelo, and at the time, I mistakenly thought he was a girl. I told him that Tumelo is a boy's role, and Katlego responded, 'Yeah, but Tumelo is gay, and I'm gay.' That moment humbled me and made me realise how much South Africa has changed over the years. It was an eye-opening experience because it reminded me that you can't make assumptions or take things for granted.
What I appreciate about Tshedza Productions is that they are driven by interesting actors. If an actor stands out, they encourage us to bring them forward and see what characters we can develop for them. Katlego's casting was particularly memorable for me. He shaped Alex into a character I hadn't originally envisioned.
The same goes for Amo. I really enjoyed watching Amo and Katlego on-screen. They're not just besties in the story; they've also developed a beautiful friendship off-screen.
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