Latest news with #7deLaan
The Citizen
17-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Mr Hallelujah: Denver Vraagom on his ‘funky dominee' role, going sober… and Cheslin Kolbe
Gangster to gospel: Former '7de Laan' star Denver Vraagom joins the cast of 'Skemergrond' as the unconventional Dominee Wayne. Clockwise from left: Denver Vraagom as Dominee Wayne in 'Skemergrond'; as Sheldon in '7de Laan' and Springbok rugby star Cheslin Kolbe: Pictures: Supplied and Gallo Images Denver Vraagom is a television legend. He became a household name during his 7de Laan days as Sheldon in the iconic SABC2 soapie The actor and television presenter also played the role of Zane in the 2007 mini-series After Nine and appeared in Erfsondes, Arendsvlei and Swartwater Denver, who married his 7de Laan co-star Ingrid Paulus, dreams of one day portraying the character of Hamlet. But for now it is Skemergrond and not Shakespeare for the talented actor. Catch Denver Vraagom as Dominee Wayne in 'Skemergrond' As from tonight (Thursday, 17 July), Denver joins the cast of the popular DStv telenovela Skemergrond as Dominee Wayne Ackerman, who shakes things up and might even find love. Rapid-fire Q&A with Denver Vraagom You play the role of Dominee Wayne. Without giving too much away, tell us more about the character. Denver: Wayne Ackerman is the kind of reverend who challenges stereotypes. He's unorthodox – an energetic, funky minister who uses humour and creativity to make faith more accessible to everyone in the church. For him, singing is the best way to spread a message – no matter how off-key or flat you're singing. Instead of long, formal sermons, he prefers to share his message during a walk in the garden or along the river. Is Dominee Wayne a man who's going to shake things up? One aunt in the congregation finds him incredibly annoying at first, but she'll later come to realise she actually likes his approach. Denver Vraagom as Dominee Wayne in the DStv telenovela 'Skemergrond'. Picture: Supplied He even plants real plants inside the church. Why not? Things need to be livened up. Church should be a place for everyone. Fill the building with life. What do you enjoy most about playing a minister? Strangely enough, I always wanted to be a minister when I was a child – I was an altar boy back then. But drama and sport eventually took over my life. What makes this role so enjoyable is that it's a new challenge. I can play only so many gangsters and messed-up characters! Dominee Wayne brings out a different side of me. A softer side. A side that's become more important to me – especially since I started my sober journey. [Denver stopped drinking alcohol seven years ago.] You bring a lot of soap opera experience – both in front of and behind the cameras. What makes Skemergrond different for you? Denver: I get to play and explore a bit more with Skemergrond. Soap operas are like a sausage machine – fast-paced and structured. In soapies, we usually shoot with three cameras and a vision mixer who cuts between the shots in real time, almost like a DJ. With Skemergrond, we work with only two cameras, and the setup is more dynamic. The angles are changed for every shot, and the lighting is constantly adjusted. That gives me space to explore different performance options for each scene. You recently moved to the Western Cape with your wife, Ingrid Paulus, and daughters, Skye and Hannah. What do you enjoy most about life in Cape Town? Denver: I'm actually back where it all began for me 32 years ago! Ingrid now has the chance to explore new career opportunities She recently did some radio work, including a radio drama and directing book readings. She also does some dubbing again. The kids love the beach, of course, and we're just a five-minute walk from the ocean here in Saldanha Bay. And we're closer to my family, who I didn't see much of for nearly 20 years. ALSO READ: Op my Eish!': Ruan Smith's 'twin wingman' calls rugby star a 'big teddy bear' [VIDEO] When you are not Dominee Wayne in Skemergrond, what else keeps you busy? Not much. Being Dominee Wayne keeps me occupied! I've started writing again, although at a snail's pace. On my days off, I make sure to spend quality time with the kids. Rugby is one of your passions in life. If you could swap positions with any Springbok player, who would it be and why? Denver: Cheslin Kolbe! Back in Standard 5 (now Grade 7), I played wing for Diaz Primary in Mossel Bay. But after one big tackle and a lot of blood, I decided ballet might be safer. I still dream of scoring that perfect try! Cheslin Kolbe in top form against France during the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France; and behind the wheel with his wife, Layla. Photos Lionel Hahn/ Getty Images and YouTube screengrab SABC3/TopBilling What other dreams do you have – as a director, and as an actor? Denver: As a director, I'd love to bring two specific projects to life: a drama series and a film. As an actor, I'd like to play Hamlet. When you look back on your life, what are the biggest highlights? Denver: The highlight(s) are my children, and my wife, who has stood by me through everything. And that life-saving moment when I gave up drinking seven years ago. What does the future hold? Denver: To continue growing as a unit with my family, and hopefully take on more soul-nourishing roles with plenty of magic, both in front of and behind the camera and on stage. Tune in every Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm on kykNET&kie (DStv channel 145) to see how Dominee Wayne keeps the community on their toes. 'Skemergrond' is also available on DStv Stream and Catch Up. NOW READ: 'Boer Soek 'n Vrou': New crop of farmers and Reandi Grey behind the wheel – What to know
The Citizen
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
‘Boer Soek ‘n Vrou': New crop of farmers and Reandi Grey behind the wheel
Actress Reandi Grey gets behind the wheel of the 'Boer Soek 'n Vrou' Hilux bakkie as brand new presenter of the popular reality dating series. The 17th season of 'Boer Soek 'n Vrou' starts next month with Reandi Grey as presenter. Pictures: Supplied The 2025 season of kykNET's reality dating series Boer Soek 'n Vrou kicks off on 7 August with a 'fresh crop' of farmers and actress Reandi Grey as the new presenter. 'For years, it was like my industry bucket list – what I wanted to do,' Reandi – who grew up on a farm – enthused about her first presenter role. The Diepe Waters actress follows in the footsteps of Marciel Hopkins, who played Cupid for the past four years, covering thousands of kilometres in her mission to hook farmers up with a city girl. Reandi Grey and Marciel Hopkins. Picture: Supplied Reandi Grey joins 'Boer Soek 'n Vrou' as presenter No 7 Reandi is the seventh Boer Soek 'n Vrou presenter after Elma Postma, Angelique Gerber, Nadia Beukes, Minki van der Westhuizen, Leah van Niekerk and, of course, Marciel. The actress won the hearts of viewers as Esti Fouche in the iconic soapie 7de Laan before joining the cast of Diepe Waters as Anja in 2022. She has also appeared on Legacy and recently launched her own clothing line, Grey Creations. 'Boer Soek 'n Vrou': Free State farmers rules the roost Following the same format as before, the latest edition of Boer Soek 'n Vrou, which has been a massive success in Mzansi since its 2007 debut, will largely focus on the five farmers who received the most entries. This year's hopeful participants range in age from 26 to 56. The 10 chosen farmers represent six provinces, with the Free State taking the lead with three eligible bachelors in the running. 'Salt-of-the-earth people' Actress Reandi Grey will be the host and presenter of 'Boer Soek 'n Vrou' S17. Picture: Supplied Reandi teased that, with a new director on board, fans should expect some surprises along the way. 'All the farmers who have enrolled are also people I will want to keep close to me for the rest of my life,' she added. 'They are exceptional salt-of-the-earth people who deserve love – and I feel honoured to be part of it. 'It's a role I wish for anyone in their life, because being part of a love story – whether it is that of someone else or your own – is very special and necessary.' 'Boer Soek 'n Vrou': Meet the 2025 farmers… Nicolaas, 37, sheep and seed farmer from Bredasdorp, Western Cape Rudi H, 56, goat farmer of Windsorton, Northern Cape Lourie, 26, cattle farmer from Freeburg, Northwest Evert, 38, macadamia, citrus and wild farmer from Tshipise, Limpopo Willie, 26, macadamia and wild farmer from Badland, Mpumalanga Reinier, 29, sowing, cattle and sheep farmer from Frankfort, Free State Ruan, 30, sheep, cattle and seed farmer from Tweespruit, Free State Christof, 38, turksvy and salt farmer from Petrusburg, Free State Pieter, 29, sheep farmer from Richmond, Northern Cape
IOL News
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Tributes pour in for veteran actress Meme Ditshego who has died at 60
The South African entertainment has lost one of its most beloved actors, Meme Ditshego, who died on Wednesday, June 25, at the age of 60. Her passing was confirmed by her talent agency, Eye Media Artists. The cause of death has still not been revealed. Ditshego is renowned for her iconic roles in popular local TV shows, including SABC 2's 'Ga Re Dumele', where she played the iconic role of Josephine Ratau. She has starred in 'The Coconuts', 'Muvhango' '7de Laan' and most recently, 'Cobrizi.'
IOL News
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Marko Voster: rising star unpacks masculinity in the twisted coming-of-age tale 'Adam'
The cast is further enriched by talented actors such as Inge Beckmann ("Wyfie"), Antoinette Louw (" Spinners ") and Paul Strydom ("Reënboogrant" and "Spooksoeker"). Up-and-coming actor Marko Vorster, known for his role as Francois in "Donkerbos", portrays Adam, a boy grappling with the narrow definitions of masculinity imposed by both his surroundings and influential figures, particularly his idealistic teacher, played by Dirk Stoltz of " 7de Laan " fame. "Adam" presents a moving narrative centred around the life of a headstrong teenager navigating the strict confines of a militaristic farm school named Prinsloo Bush School, drawing in audiences with its explorative approach to themes of masculinity, belonging and societal expectations. Following its screening at the Joburg Film Festival recently, "Adam", a coming-of-age story, is now streaming on Showmax. Written by Winford Collings and co-directed by Collings and Liyema Speelman, "Adam" finds its roots in the personal experiences of its creators. The film's script, over a decade in the making, matured alongside Collings himself. "The opportunity found me at the right time. I'd gone down a completely different path to filmmaking, studying accounting and working across various industries, but when this opportunity came along, it was the right time," shared Collings. "I don't think I would've been ready to tell this story a decade ago. Because the film tells the story from the perspectives of both teenagers and adults, I needed to live life outside of the confines of boarding school and mature, to have a full understanding of the world. The script matured alongside me," he said. Describing the film, Speelman remarked: "'Adam' is our take on a coming-of-age story, set in a strict, militaristic farm school. It follows a boy who's placed into a system designed to shape him into a very narrow version of masculinity: tough, emotionless and obedient. "His teacher is the force behind that system, but Adam resists and that resistance comes at a cost. For me, 'Adam' is about the weight of those inherited narratives and the courage it takes to step outside of them and define yourself on your own terms." Both Collings and Speelman hope viewers take away a message of self-discovery. Collings said: "At its core, 'Adam' is a family drama, and I think that's what helps it resonate. While Adam is our throughline, the story is filled with characters and dynamics that feel familiar. People recognise parts of their own families in it. "The common refrain we've heard is, 'We all know an Adam', but what draws viewers in is the range of relationships around him: his bond with his mom, the tension with his stepdad, his friendships. Everyone finds a way in, a touchpoint that feels personal." Speelman added, "I think stories like this hold up a mirror. They remind us of our own struggles and say, 'Yes, it's hard - but keep going. There's something on the other side of it'. "Especially in this time, where we as men are slowly rediscovering what it means to be a man in society. This film also speaks to that, and it asks the questions, 'How do we create our own path? What is masculinity to us?' "In conversations with friends, I find the same recurring theme, with everyone asking what it is to be a man now. 'Adam' is one of those pieces where it looks into that and leaves you with the puzzle pieces to figure that out for yourself."
The South African
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The South African
'Stay tuned': Dricus du Plessis addresses injury and Chimaev fight date rumours
UFC Middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis addressed injury rumours and gave an update on his upcoming match. As Kevin Lole revealed, there have been many rumours about Dricus's knee injury in the past few weeks. These rumours left some fans saying he is running away from fighting Khamzat Chimaev. The two athletes exchanged tweets, leaving their fans spreading more rumours. Fortunately, there are no more rumours as Dricus has cleared the air about everything regarding the speculations. Sharing on his Instagram page, Dricus revealed the truth behind the trending issues. 'Okay, so everyone had their opinions, rumours, and stories about a shin break and injuries, etc,' he started. 'I found it all very entertaining. Unfortunately, none of this is true; my team and @ufc have already discussed a fight date and opponent. The June fight was never signed,' he continued, clarifying the rumours. 'I did not pull out of any fight, I am the champion. I know when I fight you, as a contender, show up when we tell you to,' he continued. 'The fight announcement is coming soon, so stay tuned. 🇿🇦 #preparetobeamazed #stillknocks👑' he finished. This clarification left most of his fans cheering him and tipping him to defend his name. Click here to see more comments from Dricus' post After Dricus du Plessis gave his injury update and Chimaev fight date, his fans supported him. @Josh Ferreira 'Dricus let the drama play out like an episode of 7 de Laan 💀😂🇿🇦' @ 'Lmao he just let borralho embarrass himself for a whole week' @Matt Gidia 'Very relieved to hear no snapped shin champ. And still' @George van der Schyff 'Also very relieved for you and your health champ' Now that Dricus confirmed his fitness, fans are celebrating and waiting for his next match. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
