While South African TV and film are often dominated by local talent, many famous actors on South African screens actually hail from other countries. These performers have managed to carve out successful careers in South Africa, bringing their unique skills and backgrounds to local productions. Below are ten actors who have made a significant impact in South Africa’s entertainment industry, despite not being originally from the country.

1. Anthony Oluwakayode Oseyemi Antonio

Anthony, known for his performances in South African dramas, was born in Britain to Nigerian parents. He identifies as a British South African actor and moved to South Africa in 1997 as part of a cultural exchange program. His career blossomed here, particularly due to his love for the South African creative scene. Anthony has become a familiar face in the local industry, known for his roles in popular shows and films.

2. Angela Atlanta

Angela Atlanta is a Botswana-born actress and model best known for her role as Item Motomomy in the South African drama Muvango on SABC2. Born and raised in Mount Township in Botswana, Angela had a modest upbringing before moving to South Africa, where she quickly made her mark in the entertainment world. She portrays the estranged sister of James Motama in Muvango, gaining widespread recognition across the country.

3. Joseph Kazadi

Joseph Kazadi is a 31-year-old actor, fitness model, scriptwriter, and entrepreneur originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He moved to South Africa at the age of 10 with his mother to escape the violent conflict in the DRC. His career took off in South Africa, where he became known for his roles in The Queen and Uzalo. Joseph has also appeared in international films, showcasing his diverse talent.

4. Melissa Mkhize

Melissa Mkhize was born in 1988 in Marcellon, Lesotho, before moving to various places in the country. She pursued political science but ultimately chose acting as her career. She became widely recognized for her role on Muvango, where she played Buhomokuevo. Melissa’s journey to fame is a testament to her resilience, overcoming various obstacles to become a prominent figure in South African entertainment.

5. Amanda Chesame Day

Born in Zimbabwe on October 19, 1991, Amanda Chesame Day is best known for playing the role of One Dilege in Generations: The Legacy. Amanda moved to South Africa in the early 2000s to further her education and pursue acting. She made a name for herself in the theater world before landing her major role in Generations, where her portrayal of a transgender character sparked significant conversations.

6. Sharon Ncube

Sharon Ncube hails from Kanye Village in Botswana. She’s widely known for her portrayal of Marang in Muvango. Before joining South African television, Sharon acted in Botswana’s Colors Darkolu. She also gained recognition for reaching the top five in the 2013 Miss Botswana competition. Sharon’s move to South Africa marked the beginning of her successful career in the country’s entertainment industry.

7. Chioma Antoinette Umiala

Chioma Antoinette Umiala is a South African actress of Nigerian descent, born in Johannesburg on July 19, 1996. She is best known for her role as Ayodemy in The Queen, and her career spans across South African drama series and music videos. Although Chioma’s mother is South African, her Nigerian heritage has influenced much of her artistic expression. She began her acting journey through auditions and quickly rose to fame in local TV dramas.

8. Konichiome Tony Chume

Konichiome Tony Chume, a 70-year-old South African actress of Malawian descent, is most famous for her role as Mamaketi on Rhythm City. Her father, originally from Malawi, moved to South Africa, where Tony grew up and developed an interest in acting. Throughout her career, she has embraced both her South African and Malawian roots, making her a celebrated figure in South African television and theater.

9. Raphael Griffiths

Raphael Griffiths, born in Johannesburg on January 2, 1992, is a Zambian-South African actor and singer. His father is Zambian, while his mother is South African. Raphael has had a successful career in the South African entertainment industry, particularly in drama series like Uzalo. Despite facing challenges due to xenophobic sentiments in South Africa, Raphael remains proud of his roots and has made notable contributions to the local industry.

10. Jerome Galiao

Jerome Galiao, born on June 5, 1984, in Zimbabwe, is a popular actor and model best known for his roles in Scandal! and Gomora. Jerome started his career as a model and later ventured into acting, appearing in various television shows. He made his move to South Africa in 2018, where he quickly gained recognition. Jerome’s rise to fame reflects the growing diversity and international influence in South African entertainment.

Conclusion

These actors have not only navigated the complexities of being foreigners in South Africa but have also contributed significantly to the country’s vibrant entertainment industry. Their diverse backgrounds bring a fresh perspective to local productions, and their stories are proof of how the global nature of acting allows for talent to transcend borders.

Whether they are born in nearby countries like Zimbabwe, Botswana, or Congo, or hail from further afield, these performers have shown that South Africa’s entertainment scene is a melting pot of global influences. Their success serves as a reminder of the universal appeal of creativity and the power of cultural exchange in the world of acting.