Former Smoke & Mirrors actor Khayalethu Xaba talks new roles and career growth
Actor Khayalethu Xaba, who played the role of Mpendulo on the show, is now starring in Mzansi Wethu's telenovela, Homecoming, which is being recorded in Bergville, KwaZulu-Natal.
Taking a break from filming to speak with us, he's eager to explain why he decided to take on the role of Vusi.
He tells Drum that he was drawn to the role because, unlike all his previous characters who were based in Johannesburg, this one offered something different.
He also shares his journey and how he continues to grow as an actor.
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'I decided to take the role firstly because of where he's based in Bergville, KZN. All of my previous characters have been either street smart or cheese boys from the suburbs. I've never played a boy from the villages. Most importantly, though, as a storyteller, it's important to know your audience, and right now I feel like I'm talking to people, especially those in the hoods and villages, even the ones in the suburbs. The challenges I usually have with characters resonate with young men,' he says.
The heartthrob shares that he is also entering into a new dimension of comedy.
'I'm also dabbling in stand-up comedy, but I'm new in the space. I still have a lot to learn in the space. I don't just want to be an actor who thinks he's funny. I want to be a comedian. Everything I'm doing now has been a childhood dream of mine since I was five and ten years old, ' he reveals.
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Although he was aware of the pitfalls of the industry, he remained undeterred in his pursuit of his childhood dream.
'I only became aware of the challenges of the industry just before I got my first gig, but I realise that every career has its pitfalls. I didn't let that stop me from pursuing my childhood dream.'
As a young actor, he cherishes having mentors who have walked the path before him.
'One of our mentors is Sdumo Mtshali, because we worked together before. He has always supported me and showed me the ropes. Another one is Bonko, who told me that his door is always open for me to talk to him to get guidance on whatever I need help with. These are my two mentors, who have been instrumental in helping me with my career so far,' he concludes.
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