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Gugu Gumede shares how weight loss changed life and career

South African actress Gugu Gumede opened up on her Instagram page about how incredible her weight-loss journey has been.

The 34-year-old 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’

Gugu Gumede speaks on weight loss

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.”

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A post shared by Gugu Gumede (@itsgugugumede)

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

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

Gugu Gumede to star in new Netflix show

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.

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.

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

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