Photo of Dideka Njemla

SA’s multi-talented television stars who are iconic directors

While many directors are known for strictly remaining behind-the-scenes, you’d be surprised to find out that the faces behind some of Mzansi’s most gripping and well told locally produced TV acts are produced by some of the faces we have seen on TV.

While it cannot be argued that the true art of a film lies within the cast, it should also be known that the brains to the entire production are often those behind the scenes such as the television or film directors.

If you have ever wondered who the faces behind some of our gripping local talent is, then here are a few familiar faces that may surprise you:

  • Mandla N

Having starred on one of Mzansi funniest comedy sitcoms, City Ses’la as Themba. Mandla is the brains behind the production company Black Brain Pictures which is responsible for local shows and movies such as Isitha, Diep City, Side Dish and more.

 

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  • Zolani Phakade 

While this multi-award-winning director has appeared as an actor on The River, he spends a lot more of his time being behind-the-scenes for the telenovela. Some of his work includes District 6, and Blood Diamond.

 

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A post shared by Zolani Phakade (@zolaniphakade)

  • Chris Q. Radebe

Often playing the role of king, Chris’s storytelling and directing skills have aided towards some of Mzansi most watched local series. While many may have bad things to say about some of the characters he often portrays, the opposite can be said about his behind-the-scenes work. Chris has worked on shows such as Gomora, Uzalo, The Queen and The River.

 

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A post shared by Chris Q. Radebe (@chrisq.za)

  • Thomas Gumede

The multitalented Thomas is a comedian, actor as well as a reality TV star. What many do not know is that he also holds many behind-the-scenes titles within South Africa’s film and entertainment industry. Thomas has worked the Netflix original Kedibone, eTV’s Nikiwe and a few of Mzansi Magic’s reality shows.

 

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Also see: 8 Stellar South African female thespians

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