The entertainment industry is full of surprises, and while many dream of becoming actors, few imagine ever leaving the glitz and glamour behind.
However, for some South African actors, circumstances have led them to trade in their scripts for new career paths—some unconventional, others incredibly successful.
Whether due to financial struggles, career stagnation, or personal aspirations, these actors have moved on to regular jobs, corporate roles, and entrepreneurial ventures.
Here are 15 Mzansi actors who left acting for different careers.
1. Mam Tomen – From Actor to Doctor
Mam Tomen was once a familiar face on South African television, known for his roles in Our Stories, Intersection Season 2, and as a YoTV presenter.
However, he decided to leave acting behind to pursue a career in medicine.
Now known as Dr. Mam Tomen, he has completely transitioned out of the entertainment industry.
Given the unstable nature of acting gigs and the often low pay in South Africa, it’s unlikely he will return to the small screen.
2. Ronia – From ‘Generations’ Star to Uber Driver
Fans were shocked when photos surfaced of Ronia, a legendary Generations actor, working as an Uber driver.
Many expressed disbelief, while others defended his career shift, emphasizing that an honest job is better than struggling in an unpredictable industry.
Despite some social media criticism, Ronia appears to be content with his new path.
3. Alfred Ntombela – From Actor to Store Promoter
Known for his role in Mad Buddies and various comedy films, Alfred Ntombela is another actor who has seemingly left the industry.
He is currently working as a promoter for a retail store, though it remains unclear whether he has officially quit acting or is simply waiting for a new opportunity.
4. Mangaliso Ngema – From Actor to Car Salesman
After facing financial hardship and even homelessness, Mangaliso Ngema made the difficult decision to leave acting and find stable employment.
He now works as a salesman at a car dealership in Pretoria.
Once a household name, his journey is a sobering reminder of how unpredictable the entertainment industry can be.
5. Kgomotso Christopher – Business Mogul and Insurance Company Owner
Kgomotso Christopher, a former Scandal! actor, shifted gears entirely when he founded Digi Financial Services, an insurance company offering various financial products.
Running a business is no easy task, and while he has made occasional acting appearances, his focus is now on his company.
6. Wright Ngubeni – From Actor to Marketing Executive
Wright Ngubeni was a popular face on South African TV, especially for his role as AX in Generations.
However, he chose to retire from acting in 2014 and transitioned into the corporate world.
He now works for MultiChoice as the Senior Marketing Manager for Showmax’s Premier League brand.
7. Salamina Mosese – Advertising and Branding Professional
Former YoTV presenter and actress Salamina Mosese decided to leave the entertainment industry for a career in marketing and brand strategy.
She is now a co-founder of Strategy Network, leading marketing initiatives for major companies, including LEAD Johannesburg.
8. Noluthando Meje – Teaching English in China
The former Generations: The Legacy actress shocked many when she relocated to China to work as an English teacher.
With her acting career seemingly on hold, it’s unlikely that she will return to South African screens anytime soon.
9. Samkelo Ndlovu – Businesswoman and CEO
Samkelo Ndlovu, known for her roles in Scandal! and Gamora, made a smooth transition from acting to entrepreneurship.
She first moved into radio presenting before co-founding a business with her husband, which later expanded into a large group company.
She has stated that she was always meant to be a leader rather than an actress.
10. Carol Bouwer – Actress Turned Media Mogul
Carol Bouwer, a former Generations actress, completely reinvented herself as a businesswoman.
She now owns a production company that has produced several successful television shows, including Mbokodo Awards and Motswako.
Her shift from in front of the camera to behind the scenes has been highly successful.
11. Dumisani Mbebe – Corporate Executive in the Banking Sector
Dumisani Mbebe, a well-known Generations actor from the early 2000s, has left the industry for good.
He now co-owns Mipa Investments, a property investment firm, and works as the Head of Commercial Insurance at Standard Bank.
12. Daniel Roberts – Lecturer at a Film School
Daniel Roberts was a well-known face on Scandal! and Justice for All.
However, he left acting entirely to become a lecturer at the AFDA School of Arts.
His decision to step away from the screen suggests he is enjoying a stable career in academia.
13. Luthando Shosha – YouTube Star and Influencer
Luthando Shosha, who once starred in Scandal! and Doubt, found a new career on YouTube.
With an income reportedly exceeding R40,000 per month from her YouTube channel, she has no plans to return to acting.
Recently, she also hinted at a new chapter in her personal life, sharing images of her engagement to a foreign partner.
14. Loyiso Mangena – Corporate Executive
Loyiso Mangena, who played CJ in Backstage, is now the COO of PZI Group, a business consulting firm.
He has been working alongside the company’s founder since 2011, and with a lucrative career in business, there is little chance he will return to acting.
15. Precious Kofi – Fitness Trainer in the U. S.
Precious Kofi, best known for her role as Thami in Diva’s Den, left acting after marrying an American and relocating to the U. S.
She now works as a fitness trainer, dedicating herself to health and wellness instead of entertainment.
These actors prove that life after fame can take many different paths.
While some have found success in business and corporate careers, others have taken on regular jobs to make ends meet.
Their stories serve as a reminder that acting, while glamorous, is not always a stable career, and sometimes, moving on is the best choice.
Whether they ever return to the screen or not, their resilience and adaptability are admirable.
