‘I'm grateful for the love' - Thembinkosi Mthembu on staying booked and busy
He's become one of the most recognisable faces on the small screen and is showing no signs of slowing down.
Award-winning actor Thembinkosi Mthembu chats with Drum to discuss his latest role on Mzansi Magic's 'Homecoming.' In this exclusive interview, he reveals the secret behind his ability to master every character he portrays and gives insight into his exciting upcoming projects.
'To be honest, there's no secret to me getting more work, it's just how I treat my colleagues, the way I conduct myself on set. For example, I didn't audition for my first role at Tshedza Pictures, we just had one meeting and the role was mine,' he says, 'I'm very grateful for the love and support that I'm receiving from the public'
Throughout his career thus far, the heartthrob has shown dedication to his craft. His sterling portrayal of his current role as Sifiso in Homecoming bears testimony to his impeccable work ethic.
'My current role on Homecoming is different from previous work; it's challenging. All the fighting. I respect my work, which is why I'm able to secure more work, and I even coined a nickname for my role on Adulting, which I don't like,' he chuckles, adding that he always gets a break between his roles.
'I always get a break before starting a new job, even if it's a week'.
With such a hectic work schedule, just when does that star get time to retreat? Well, he says that although he has a busy work schedule, he can make time for family.
'When I'm not working, I'm at the gym or I'm with family here in Jozi or KZN. As busy as I am, I do make time for my family. I came to Johannesburg to work; this is the reason I hardly take a break. I'm just grateful for the opportunities that I continue to get, because the industry is tough,' he quips.
While the fact that he spends a lot of time at work may not be ideal, he doesn't like complaining, as he is aware of the fact that he came to Johannesburg to work, and in the industry he's in, not many of his peers can usher in new work opportunities as frequently as he does.
'I can't complain about anything, my mission was to work when I got here, so being able to work is nothing short of a blessing'.
Since the start of his career, he has remained unstoppable, and as he undertakes new ventures in the best future, Thembinkosi remains upbeat that he'll continue to keep his work ethic.
'In 2026 and 2027, there are projects that I'm working on with Angus Gibson. We've already spoken about them, and it's only a matter of time before we start working on them,' he concludes.
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