Lorcia Cooper Kumalo, a celebrated actress known for her role in ‘Lockdown’ and her National Film and Television Award-winning performance in ‘Red Ink’, takes on a fresh and exciting challenge in ‘Breekpunt’, the gripping new Showmax drama.
Rozanne Els spoke to Lorcia about her role as Rozlynne Joshua, the mother of an aspiring tennis star, Ashleigh (Chelsea Thomas), in ‘Breekpunt’.
What was your first impression of Rozlynne when you read the script? What drew you to her?
Rozlynne’s complexity immediately caught my attention. When I read the script, I had many questions about her. Is she being hypocritical, or is she simply being human?
I love challenges because they force me to reflect and question the human condition. Rozlynne is trying to navigate so many different spaces, trying to maintain her integrity and the integrity of her husband, daughter, and son.
It’s a reflection of how women are often expected to balance everything – being a good wife, mother, friend, and worker. The pressure to maintain this façade of perfection can really hinder someone from living a true, fulfilling life.
Rozlynne wants to support her daughter’s tennis career but also sides with her husband, who wants Ashleigh to quit tennis. What did you think of that contrast?
Rozlynne and her husband clash over their daughter’s future. As a parent, do you go with what you think your child needs, or do you support your spouse’s opinion?
It’s a tough choice, and for me, it really highlights the complexity of being a mother. Should you choose your child’s aspirations or maintain the agreement with your partner? It’s a dilemma that many parents can relate to.
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Did you draw from your own experiences to shape your character?
I don’t use my personal experiences to shape my characters. The work I do is separate from my personal life.
We all face challenges in life, but I don’t feel the need to rehash my own experiences to fuel a role. I rely on the script and the gift I’ve been given to portray the character authentically. My compassion for people helps me build any character I take on.
Which themes in ‘Breekpunt’ stood out to you?
Parenthood is never simple. Just because your child is talented at something doesn’t mean they find fulfilment in it.
In ‘Breekpunt’, Rozlynne’s son, Carl (Nahum Hughes), is expected to pursue an intellectual path, but what if that’s not what truly satisfies him?
It shows that, as parents, we sometimes impose our desires on our children, failing to see them for who they really are.
The show also explores the deep love a mother has for her child, even when it defies logic. It’s a reminder that the love of a mother is invaluable and transcends any obstacles.
