She’s travelled the world, filmed a production in Egypt; she’s MCed the 2010 Fifa World Cup, and she’s shot adverts and stood in for GoodHope FM and Top Billing. Is there anything this talented beauty cannot do?
Nambitha Ben-Mazwi has taken the entertainment industry by storm since her return to South Africa, after having lived and worked in New York City. “Lady Nam”, as she’s known within the industry, is embarking on a new venture – her first local debut in Mzansi’s new crime drama Doubt.
The action-filled murder mystery is packed with the secrets of an affluent family, and also sees Nambitha acting alongside the likes of Yonda Thomas, Khanya Mkangisa, Lucia Mthiyane and Siyabonga Radebe.
We caught up with the 27-year-old talented actress and found out more about her exciting announcement:
Can you tell us more about your character in
I play Unathi Mweli, an insecure and catty daughter whose older brother is arrested for the murder of a stripper. Playing this specific role, it was important for me to understand her insecurities in order to reach the audience and for the audience to see the human element. At the end of the day, you still want the audience to like you even when you are playing a negative character.
What was the filming experience like?
Ever since I played a minor role on Traffic! season 2, I realised that acting in my mother tongue, Xhosa, is such a liberating experience. I knew I had to do it again and pursue the local market. Needless to say, being surrounded by great local talent while filming was a truly awesome and authentic experience. Being able to tell stories that the Mzansi audience relates to and is drawn in by is very important to me as an artist. That’s when I truly feel I am able to reach people through my craft.
What was it like to act alongside the other members of the cast?
I was excited to see a dear friend, Khanya Mkhangisa! We had loads of fun on set (while remaining professional of course!). Meeting veterans like Glen Gabela and old favourites like Amanda Quwe was a great moment for me. Our cast members had the natural family chemistry that we needed for the storyline, so production was easy! There was never a dull moment on set – most of us seemed to think we were comedians in the making!
What lessons have you learnt from your character?
Firstly, Unathi is quite something! She can be a piece of work, which might rub the audience the wrong way at times. But that was the challenging and exciting element for me. I took her arrogance and privilege and broke it down to insecurity and success. Many won’t realise that despite her ‘it girl’ status, she wasn’t always like this. Growing up, she was teased at school for not being well spoken. I saw a girl who truly loves her family and who has overcome growing pains and bullying to find a new confidence in herself and her family’s success. That being said, she taught me more about taking the time to understand people, and why they act the way they do. Traits such as arrogance and bitchiness usually come from a deep place of fear, and the need to be accepted and belong.
Why do you think people will be drawn to
It’s a thrill! It’s a crime drama full of plot twists and suspense. It was truly invigorating to film, so I can just imagine what it’ll be like to watch it! It’s also relevant to what the Mzansi audience relates to and is authentic throughout the series. The cast is spot-on and the calibre of acting will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat.
‘Doubt’ premieres on Mzansi Magic on Monday, April 11 at 8pm. Be sure to tune in!
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