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IOL News
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Bonko Khoza opens up about life, fame and the pitfalls of the South African entertainment industry
South African actor Bonko Khoza opens up about fame, financial pitfalls and stresses in the entertainment industry. Image: Instagram During a visit to Lungelo KM's "Engineer Your Life" podcast, acclaimed actor Bonko Khoza delved deep into the intricacies of his life, his marriage and the challenges that come with fame. Khoza is currently the man of the moment on the small screen. He has earned high praise for his leading roles in the history-making Netflix movie, 'Heart of the Hunter' and the hit Showmax series, 'Red Ink' and "The Wife". Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ 'My heart is good' During the interview, Khoza reflected on his craft and exposed the harsh realities of the South African entertainment industry. Khoza began by discussing the awakening he has experienced regarding his personal philosophy. With a heartfelt message anchored in spirituality, he said: "My heart is good. I've been doing a lot of inner work with myself about the heart in relation to God. That's the heart's function in terms of cleaning out the tunnel between myself and God. "What I've come to learn, right now as I'm speaking to you, is that it's gratitude in terms of prayer, because it's validation of the present." Young hustler Rewinding to his early aspirations, Khoza shared a glimpse of his youthful pursuit of becoming a visual artist. He recalls starting out at an art school and juggling various odd jobs at Makro and Wimpy, as well as bartending. "I've been working for a long time, making my own pocket money or just cash to buy my own things." Addressing the sobering reality that many South African actors die broke, Khoza mentioned: 'The South African entertainment industry is no different in appearance or structure than anywhere in the world, but here we have real problems.' He pointed out that productions are often severely underfunded, leading to compensation that does not reflect the talent and dedication actors bring to their roles. 'I think there is a terrible stigma around producers underpaying people and I might put my head on the chopping block here, but the ecosystem is not that strong,' Khoza stated. 'Most of our legends die broke because, number one, it's not that glamorous, the fees aren't that great, and secondly, we don't have royalties.' Pay pitfalls He emphasised that actors remain financially vulnerable due to the nature of their contracts, which are often renewed annually, based on budget constraints. "At every job, you're just making enough for that job. It's crazy that the perception is that when someone sees you on TV, they think that you're making a crap ton of money, I don't know why human perception is that 'because I am public, I am rich'. "The people that are successful in the industry, I think have had great ways to manage that money or some kind of support. But if you are surviving purely on acting money, it's hard because you are not guaranteed your next job," he said. Reflecting on his exit from the popular show, "The Wife", Khoza shared that he does not allow public opinion to dictate his career moves. "I am never dictated by what other people think, not that I couldn't care less, I love an audience, I went to a theatre school, we engage with the audience, but my art is not measured by how someone else feels. Being human "I really try to do what I think is cool and what I think people will appreciate and just take it from there. "In this life now, the artist can quickly become the art. I am not the art, I am Bonko, I am the artist. Artists were never supposed to be famous. I was never supposed to be famous, I'm a piece of sh**. "I am not the cool guy, I've never been the cool guy. I'm introspective, I'm poetic, I'm deep, I cry, I am not the architype of a famous person and how that person suppose to engage." He acknowledged the precarious balance artists must maintain between their professional and personal lives, citing the stressors that arise when one neglects their humanity for the sake of their craft. "Being human is my job, everytime someone books me, I have to draw from the actual reality of it, and if I haven't lived the actual reality of it, there is nothing to draw from. "So when I was doing three season of 'The Wife' with barely no time to be human, it became dangerous to say at what point am I going to go back and be human again. And at the same time, the human was starting to go crazy." Watch the full podcast below.
Hindustan Times
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Best horror films and series to watch on OTT before Sonakshi Sinha's Nikita Roy releases
Sonakshi Sinha will be seen in the upcoming psychological supernatural horror thriller, Nikita Roy, which releases in theaters on June 27. Also starring Arjun Rampal, and Paresh Rawal, the film is directed by Sonakshi's brother Kussh Sinha. As per the trailer, Sonakshi's character is facing some eerie supernatural events. On the other hand, Amar Dev, played by Paresh Rawal, plays a spiritual guru who helps people but Sonakshi suspects he is a fraud. Ahead of the release of Nikita Roy, watch other horror films and series on OTTplay Premium that are unmissable! Want to watch more spooky movies? Stream Raat, The Wife, and more on OTTplay Premium! Andhar Maya is a Marathi web series that is focused on the Khatu family's annual visit to their ancestral home in Konkan as a series of terrifying and mysterious events unfold. The series explores family secrets, betrayals, and the supernatural, as family members confront unexplained disappearances and whispers of an old family curse. It stars Kishor Kadam, Rutuja Bagwe, Shubhankar Tawde, and others. The series is directed by National Award-winning filmmaker, Bhimrao Mude. Bramayugam is a Malayalam horror film. Starring Mammootty in the lead role, the film is set in 17th-century Kerala and revolves around a folklore singer named Thevan who gets trapped in a mysterious mansion. The film explores themes of power, oppression, and the dangers of unchecked authority. Mammootty plays the role of Koduman Potti, the mysterious owner of the mansion in the film, directed by Rahul Sadasivan. Blurr is a Hindi psychological thriller, which is a remake of the Spanish movie Julia's Eyes. The movie is about Gayatri (Taapsee Pannu), who investigates her twin sister Gautami's (also Taapsee Pannu) suspicious death. Directed by Ajay Bahl, the story revolves around Gayatri's attempts to uncover the truth behind Gautami's suicide, while she struggles with her own declining eyesight and a broken marriage. Bhram is a series about a woman who experiences illusions and visions, which lead her to uncover a dark secret of a prominent family in Shimla. The series explores themes of trauma, and grief, with the protagonist struggling with her own mental state while trying to piece together the truth. The series, directed by Sangeeth Sivan, stars Kalki Koechlin, Bhumika Chawla, Sanjay Suri, Eijaz Khan, and others. U-Turn is about a journalist investigating mysterious deaths. Notably, all deaths are linked to people taking illegal U-turns on a flyover. The story centers around Radhika, an intern journalist, who becomes a suspect in the deaths she's investigating. Directed by Arif Khan, the movie stars Alaya F, Priyanshu Painyuli, Aashim Gulati, and others.
The Citizen
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Actress Zikhona Sodlaka celebrates 20 years in the industry with masterclasses
Throughout her two decades in the industry, Sodlaka has often been asked by fans and aspiring creatives for guidance and advice. The Zikhona Sodlaka Masterclass is a space for creatives to grow, learn and be empowered, through guided and interactive engagement. Picture: Supplied In celebration of 20 years in the industry, actress Zikhona Sodlaka is hosting masterclasses to share her knowledge with the next generation of creatives. In her 20 years in the industry, Sodlaka says she has always received requests for advice from fans who are aspiring actors or creatives. 'I was busy doing the work. Now this year, because of this incredible realisation that I'm turning 40 years young, while celebrating 20 years, I think now I have one, the time and [two] the confidence to say I've got something to offer you,' Sodlaka told The Citizen. The Zikhona Sodlaka Masterclass is a space for creatives to grow, learn, and empower through guided and interactive engagement. 'The 20-year-long journey that I've accumulated this far definitely had a lot of participation from people who've supported my career, and in that 20 years, the questions have been coming from my people, but just couldn't at the time 'I finally have the opportunity I've been looking for, to kind of look back and like almost pass this baton that my supporters have been wanting me to pass even before now.' ALSO READ: 'Give this queen her flowers' – 'The Wife' viewers celebrate Zikhona Sodlaka as Mandisa Sodlaka's new role Sodlaka's career spans television, film, and theatre, shaping South Africa's cultural landscape with captivating performances and authentic storytelling. Her career started on the popular SABC 1 educational drama Tsha Tsha, which was in its fourth season. She says her introduction into the industry was advantageous because of the talent she worked alongside. 'Being thrown into the beautiful deep end that I was thrown into, swimming with sharks, killer whales, and dolphins, which were these icons and legends I was working with. In my first show, I worked with sis Vatiswa Ndara, who played my mom. I worked on a show that had umama uNomhle Nkonyeni,' she says. Now, she's stepping into a new role: mentor, teacher, and guide for aspiring talent nationwide. In addition to marking 20 years in the film and television industry, Sodlaka also celebrates her 40th birthday this year. ALSO READ: Actress asks for privacy after the arrest of ex-boyfriend Giving back Attendees will gain tools on owning their voice, navigating the industry and building longevity in the entertainment space. 'From characterisation, to navigating the business of the arts, to branding…it's a full day,' says Sodlaka about the masterclass programme. As part of the masterclass programme, surprise acts will join Sodlaka in each province. The masterclass tour will visit six cities, starting at the end of May in Gqeberha's Nelson Mandela University, stopping in Cape Town and Bloemfontein, and wrapping up in Johannesburg in August. 'I almost did make the mistake of only going to the major cities until there was a call from a few people saying 'hey, don't leave us out'.' NOW READ: Denzel Washington 'blessed beyond measure' after surprise tribute at Cannes Film Festival
News24
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- News24
Zikhona Sodlaka celebrates two decades in acting and reflects on motherhood
She first captured hearts with her roles in Tsha Tsha, Soul City, and made a brief appearance on Generations. Actress Zikhona Sodlaka marks 20 years in the entertainment industry with nationwide Masterclass Tour starting in Gqeberha. Two decades ago, South African television was introduced to a young actress whose presence would leave an indelible mark. Since then, she's become a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, transforming from rising star to revered veteran, all while maintaining the same authenticity that made Mzansi fall in love with her. Now, as she prepares to celebrate her 40th birthday, the actress and producer, Zikhona Sodlaka reflects on her journey in the entertainment industry — not with nostalgia, but with purpose and power. The evolution of me has been like any other woman's evolution,' she tells DRUM. 'Coming from being a kid just finishing your teenage years and growing into a woman, starting to find your voice, as a human, and as an artist. I've developed a tone, a voice, and a language I want to run forward with.' From her gripping portrayal of Mandisa on The Wife to her menacing turn as NomaRussia, Zikhona has always chosen roles that are real, gritty, and emotionally charged. Her characters aren't just performances, they are lived experiences. 'I choose my roles according to the story of that woman. If the storyline is overdone, there's no need for me to do it. It needs to grab my full attention.' Whether she's a supporting actress on Blood & Water or performing in a theatre production, Zikhona pours herself into her characters. 'I need to sit up at night and go, 'Mhmm, what could have happened?' Then I can take it and go to town with it.' Turning 40 and clocking 20 years in the industry would be enough reason to celebrate, but Zikhona is doing more than that. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zikhona Sodlaka (@zikhonasodlaka) She's kicking off a nationwide masterclass tour, beginning in her home province, the Eastern Cape, aimed at inspiring and uplifting the next generation of South African creatives. 'The masterclass has become something like, 'Hey guys, we've achieved something. Let's share it.' I thought turning 40 and celebrating 20 years in the business is a nice time to say, 'Okay, cool guys, this is how far we've come.' Then we go back, inherit another 20 years, and come back again.' The Zikhona Sodlaka Masterclass is more than just a celebratory tour, it's a space for reflection, skill-building, and growth. 'This industry has given me so much, and now I want to give back in a way that's honest, vulnerable, and useful,' Zikhona says. 'These sessions are not just about me, they're about building the next generation of fearless creators.' Zikhona is not just an actress anymore, she's a businesswoman and mother too. Her production company, Zikhona Sodlaka Productions, is four years old and growing steadily. 'There's no time to be afraid to run with it. It's a lot of work to establish your own business in this country, but I've been pounding at the rock,' she says. The company aims to tell stories that matter, stories that reflect real people. 'Some of the work I'm creating, I'll star in it too. That's the whole point, creating stories so riveting that you'd want to participate in them yourself. But I'm also creating platforms for others, old and new talent, to leave their hearts on stage.' she says. She's also a proud mother to a four-year-old son, a role that she embraced fully even while filming Blood & Water. 'I became a mom in front of everyone. I was pregnant throughout shooting, gave birth, and returned to work immediately after,' she says. 'There's nothing special I've done. There are many women who are pregnant and working, carrying their kids at work. I've just taken my ride as a working mom and ran with it.' Read more | Tebogo Thobejane pleas for privacy as ex-boyfriend's attempted murder bail hearing postponed As someone who has consistently portrayed powerful Black women on screen, Zikhona believes it's her duty to reflect them as they truly are. 'It's my responsibility to show Black women the way they really are. It's then up to you to decide they are strong,' she explains. She may have come of age on our screens, but today she stands as a mentor, a mother, and a creator who refuses to wait for permission to do meaningful work. And if her past 20 years are anything to go by, her next chapter promises to be even more trailblazing. 'Watch this space,' she says with a smile. 'There's a lot coming.'
The Star
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Abdul Khoza bids farewell to acting with last audition video
Abdul Khoza, the celebrated South African actor known for his compelling performances, has announced his decision to step away from the spotlight. In a poignant farewell, he recently shared his last audition video, providing an intimate glimpse into the life behind the scenes for aspiring actors. Abdul Khoza, award-winnning actor, has shared his final audition video, signalling his retirement from a celebrated acting career filled with unforgettable performances. Khoza has announced his decision, providing an intimate glimpse into the life behind the scenes for aspiring actors in his last audition video. The beloved actor widely celebrated for his gripping portrayal of various memorable characters, notably the intense Qaphela on the hit telenovela Isibaya , expressed his gratitude for the support he has received throughout his career. The role has also seen him win a prestigious South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) Golden Horn for a character that showcased his remarkable versatility as both a fierce killing machine and a man seeking redemption. In his heartfelt message shared on Instagram, Khoza noted, 'So I decided to share one of my last auditions that I did this year before I decided to simply quit acting. This is a way for me to show those who still wish to pursue a career in acting that we all go through the audition processes. For an actor to get a role, they are required to audition, and this is my last self-tape. I hope that it gives you a better understanding of the process and how we do it. Thank you to @spholaricky for reading this with me.' His talent is also on display in his portrayal of Zembe, a ruthless businessman dealing in 'protection fees', in the gripping series My Brother's Keeper Season 2. The actor gained further acclaim through his performance in The Wife , which has captivated audiences across South Africa and outperformed all other programmes on the Showmax platform. The series broke records as the most viewed on Showmax and claimed multiple accolades, including the 2022 DStv Mzansi Magic Viewers' Choice Awards for Best Actor for Khoza and his co-star Bonko Khoza. At the 2022 SAFTAs, The Wife received nominations in ten categories, winning Best Telenovela, Best Actor, and Supporting Actor for its standout performances. Khoza's contributions to the industry have been lauded as he departs with deep appreciation. 'Last but not least: THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO EVER SUPPORTED MY JOURNEY AS AN ACTOR; I AM HONOURED TO HAVE BEEN ABLE TO SHARE MY TALENTS WITH YOU. I WOULD HAVE NEVER KNOWN MY OWN TALENT WITHOUT YOU.' [email protected] Saturday Star
