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How slimming has changed my life and career- Gugu Gumede 

by Chumasande Matiwane
Image Credit: X

34-year-old Gugu Gumede opened up on her Instagram page about how incredible her weight-loss journey has been.

Gugu, who started acting when she was just 23, and at 24 got her biggest role at the time, a role any young actress would have dreamed of. But for Gugu, there was a problem. Her weight made her become typecast, playing a role that made her look way older than she was. People saw her on screen and thought she was decades older.

Also see: Fans eagerly await Mzansi’s new Netflix show, ‘The Polygamist‘

Gumede said, “ I played that role for so long and so well that people never believed my age. They never believed when they saw me or even when I told them.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Gugu Gumede (@itsgugugumede)


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Most of her earlier roles, where she played an older woman, her character on Uzalo and her Generations character as Mandisa, were portrayed to be older, and at the time, she fitted the role perfectly due to her weight.

Also see: Yonda Thomas secures international role in Netflix’s ‘One Piece’

Gugu said everything changed when she decided to take control of her life. She made the bold decision to undergo weight loss surgery, and the transformation has been life-changing.

This transformational change has prevailed for Gugu as she gears up to play in one of the most anticipated new Netflix telenovelas, “The Polygamist,” which is adapted from Sue Nyathi’s acclaimed novel.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by A C T O R S P A C E S (@actorspaces)

Starring S’dumo Mtshali, the story explores the emotional and societal tensions within a polygamous relationship. As secrets unfold and loyalties are tested, every decision comes with consequences that can’t be ignored.

“The Polygamist” will be available on Netflix starting June 12.

Also see: Prince Grootbom to star in Netflix’s ‘180’

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