South African actor Tshepiso Jeme has won many hearts after portraying the character of Likamva Mabandla on Inimba.
This was evident when social media went into a frenzy following Likamva’s involvement in a tragic car accident, where he was subsequently declared brain-dead in hospital. The debate continued when his sister, Qhawekazi (played by Ayakha Ntunja), had a second heart attack that led to her hospitalisation seeking a heart transplant.
The thespian first rose to fame with his portrayal of Zithulele on iThemba, followed by other appearances on Umlando ka Mqanda, Sephiri High, Intlawulo and Scandal! among others. On Inimba, Tshepiso played a complex young man whose journey involves navigating intense family dynamics and first love.
Recently, the 28-year-old sat down with BONA to reflect on his character on Mzansi Magic’s telenovela. Produced by The Milton Empire, Inimba tells a compelling story centred on family, motherhood and hidden bonds that shape the lives of its characters.
Tshepiso said he recalled vividly that he was sent the brief on December 24, 2024. He shared that he found the story incredible and is not surprised by how it is received by viewers. He recorded a self-tape for his audition, and was offered a role in February.
“In February, I think around the 14th, I received a call that I have been offered a role, and that came with an incredible feeling. Obviously, it was amazing,” he said.
In real life, Tshepiso is a family man with a wife and a child. He added that he had to do his research because he had to play a 21-year-old on set. His research involved tapping into his younger self.
“It boiled down to research which helps a lot, to chill with people in that age range, listen to how they speak because the lingo is different now. The first place of reference for an actor is themselves. Luckily, I have cousins who are in and around that age, so it was not that difficult in terms of accessing and finding things that I could use,” he said.
Tshepiso also revealed that he is reserved in how he tackles challenges, unlike Likamva who is forthcoming and says it like it is. He is laid back and scrutinises things until he finds a better approach, while Likamva comes across as impulsive.
As he bids farewell to his Inimba character, he shared that he had a chance to play alongside his heroes and people he used to watch growing up, namely Zenande Mfenyana, Sisa Hewana, Zizi Peteni and Loyiso Macdonald.
“This was my major role in a telenovela, I think my acting skills have improved because two months down the line, you get to see the work and improve on certain things. So my artistic approach and vision have been fed and have grown immensely.”
He further added that his confidence has improved. The same can be said for how he applies himself on set after working on a show that is booming and where everyone praises performance.
“So I have learnt to apply myself, to know that I’m deserving and not let factors like imposter syndrome to get the better of me,” said Tshepiso.
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Also see: ‘Inimba’ renewed for 2nd season
