Casting on 'Youngins': Behind the scenes with Keneilwe Matidze
The series has already set the record for the most first-day views on the African streaming platform since its relaunch.
Youngins has been a joyful revelation in South African entertainment. It introduces fresh talent and opens doors for young stars like Ayakha Ntunja and Kealeboga Masango.
They have both since found success in popular Mzansi Magic telenovelas Inimba and Genesis, according to Showmax Stories.
The final season will begin streaming on Showmax from 19 September. To mark this exciting milestone, Keneilwe Matidze, the dynamic actress and casting director behind the show's vibrant cast, shared some insights.
Keneilwe also plays Pearl, the lively Life Orientation teacher.
Did she expect that Youngins would become such a success? 'Honestly, yes!' Keneilwe said. 'The energy during auditions was electric.
Kids showed up from 8 am to 8 pm, and even after long hours, we were all 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 promised something special.'
One standout fan favourite on ' Youngins ' is Tumelo, played by Lebogang Lephotsoana. Keneilwe described Lebo as a 'triple threat who could act, sing, and dance.'
She said, 'Lebo was always full of life and positivity. Tumelo is the glue in the friendship group, and Lebo fits that role naturally.
He's collaborative and contagious with his energy. He even helped me keep up with TikTok slang and dance moves!'
Another cast member making waves on 'Youngins' is Thabiso Ramotshela, who plays Mahlatse. He brought great emotional depth, especially in Season 2.
Keneilwe praised his dedication: 'Thabiso dug deep to connect viewers with Mahlatse's raw, emotional story.
He pushed himself so hard that I worried about him at times, but his commitment made the character's journey authentic and relatable.'
The show's supporting cast also shines. Tshepo Matlala, who plays Tshepo, brings humour and heart.
According to Keneilwe, 'Tshepo uses his whole body to perform and taught me so much. We rehearsed off-set and found ways to elevate scenes beyond the script. He's always surprising me with fresh energy.'
Youngins is also celebrated for its authentic queer representation. Keneilwe explained, 'We worked hard on chemistry tests for Tabile Tau (Sefako) and Lebogang (Tumelo).
Intimacy on screen is tough regardless of sexuality, but these two were open, comfortable, and committed to telling the story honestly. Their friendship and professionalism carried the scenes.'
The cast's chemistry extends off-screen, too. Keneilwe shared a touching story about Katlego Moloke, who plays Alex and came out during his audition.
'He said, 'Yeah, but Tumelo is gay, and I'm gay.' That humbled me and showed how much South Africa has changed,' she said. 'Katlego shaped the Alex character in ways I hadn't imagined.'
Showmax viewers can catch the final season's thrilling conclusion from 19 September, with three new episodes dropping weekly.
Meanwhile, Seasons 1 and 2 remain available to rewatch on Showmax, and Season 1 airs on Mzansi Wethu, DStv Channel 163, every Wednesday to Friday at 19:00.
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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