South Africans are celebrating a proud moment for local television after young actor Litlhonolofatso Litlhakanyane walked away with a major honour at the South African Film and Television Awards.
The teenage performer, best known for his role as Tebello “Tibi” on the popular e.tv soapie Scandal! scooped the SAFTA for Best Supporting Actor in a TV Soap. What makes the achievement even more remarkable is his age. Litlhakanyane is only 16, yet he is already sharing the spotlight with some of the country’s most experienced performers.
The win took place during the awards ceremony at the Gallagher Convention Centre, where South Africa’s television industry gathered to celebrate the year’s standout talent.
A dream realised at just 16
For Litlhakanyane, the moment was about more than simply taking home a trophy. The young star described the recognition as deeply meaningful, especially because it came so early in his acting journey.
Behind the scenes, he credited veteran actor Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha as one of the biggest influences on his career. The two share scenes on Scandal! where Mofokeng plays Neo Mokgethi, the grandfather of Litlhakanyane’s character. Off-screen, their relationship has grown into a mentor-student dynamic.
Litlhakanyane once visited the veteran actor’s home and saw a room filled with SAFTA awards. At the time, Mofokeng told him that one day he would earn one of his own. That prediction has now become reality.
Fans across Mzansi celebrate
The reaction from fans and fellow South Africans has been overwhelmingly positive. Social media lit up with congratulatory messages soon after the announcement.
Even his classmates joined the celebration. Messages reportedly poured into his school group chats, turning the moment into a shared victory among friends and supporters.
For many viewers who follow Scandal! nightly, the award felt deserved. Litlhakanyane’s portrayal of Tebello has become one of the show’s most talked-about storylines, proving that younger actors can deliver powerful performances alongside seasoned professionals.
A big night for South African television
The SAFTAs ceremony highlighted a strong year for the local industry. Alongside Litlhakanyane’s win, several well-known actors were recognised for their work on South African screens.
Zenande Mfenyana secured her first SAFTA for her role in Inimba, while Gail Mabalane received Best Actress in a TV Drama for her performance in the Netflix series Unseen. Actor Bonko Khoza also celebrated a major moment after winning Best Actor in a Telenovela for his dual role in Ithonga.
Together, the wins painted a picture of a thriving industry filled with both emerging talent and established stars.
Litlhonolofatso Litlhakanyane wins BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A TV SOAP at the SAFTAs for his role as Tebello in Scandal#SAFTAs19 pic.twitter.com/XXIdCYRkdQ
— News Live SA (@newslivesa) March 14, 2026
A bright future ahead
Litlhonolofatso Litlhakanyane’s victory is already being seen as a milestone moment for young performers in South Africa. Awards of this scale rarely go to actors still in their teens, which makes the achievement stand out even more.
For the rising star, the SAFTA appears to be only the beginning. With growing fan support and the backing of respected mentors in the industry, many believe he is on the path to becoming one of the country’s next big screen talents.
If his early success is anything to go by, South African audiences may be watching the start of a very long and impressive career.
Also read: Ashay’s Big Brother Mzansi journey ends as eviction sparks reactions across SA
Source: Briefly News
Featured Image: Youth Village
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