He’s not just a pretty boy, Lunga has earned his stripes in the entertainment industry and is quickly building his own legacy on our TV screens.
Lunga Shabalala is a model, actor and media personality best known for hosting the SABC1 music show Selimathunzi in 2011. He soon became a popular face in the entertainment scene from shows such as SABC3’s Top Billing, Man Cave and his first-ever acting gig in Mzansi Magic’s telenovela, The River, in which he played the role of Lindani. He has just landed a prominent role in MNET’s soapie, Legacy. Lunga has taken over the role of Simz, working with legendary actors such as Michelle Botes, Siyabonga Thwala and Kgomotso Christopher. He’s young, ambitious and has been keeping his industry moves strategically lowkey, working hard under the radar to achieve his goals.
We had a quick catch-up with him and he gave us some updates on where in life he is right now.
WHAT IS IT LIKE PLAYING THE PART OF LINDANI ON THE RIVER?
Challenging and eye-opening. I had so much to learn and the cast and crew were more than willing to help me along the way. Lindani and I have very little in common, so the devil was in the details in making him unique.
YOU HAVE NOW JOINED THE LEGACY TEAM, PLEASE TELL US MORE ABOUT THAT.
It’s an honour to have this opportunity and tell a story that is a lot more layered than people think. I’ve always loved working with Tshedza Pictures, so this feels like home.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CAREER HIGHLIGHT SO FAR?
My career over the last decade has been blessed with so many milestones and achievements. They all hold a special place, so I can’t pick just one.
YOU’VE BEEN IN THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY FOR MORE THAN 10 YEARS, WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED?
Influence isn’t just limited to being on TV or radio. Social media has changed the dynamics in terms of fame and accessibility. Opinions have a place to be heard and privacy is almost non-existent.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOURSELF BACK WHEN YOU FIRST STARTED?
Stop overthinking. Making mistakes is part of the journey. Also, make time for your loved ones.
Related article: Celebrity first jobs.
HOW DO YOU KEEP SHARPENING YOUR CRAFT AS AN ACTOR?
I put in the work every day. Whether its books, masterclasses, YouTube videos, seeking advice from fellow actors and directors or sessions with Camilla Waldman who is an actress, acting coach and teacher. I want to be the hardest worker in the room.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE THE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
The process. Creating a character and watching them come to life. As more scripts come in, I’m challenged to add more to that character’s journey.
WAS ACTING SOMETHING YOU’VE ALWAYS WANTED TO DO?
I’ve always been in love with it since I was a kid. As with many of us, I was deterred from choosing the arts as a profession, because it’s so unpredictable. Entertainment and sports light a fire deep within me.
WHAT LESSONS HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM BEING AROUND LEGENDARY ACTORS ON THE RIVER AND LEGACY?
Trusting in myself and the process. Just listen to your fellow cast member and be present. Everything else will fall into place.
WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO KEEP MOVING AND GOING FOR YOUR GOALS?
I have no other choice. My anxiety won’t let me rest on my laurels.
DO YOU HAVE ANY HOBBIES OR SIDE HUSTLES THAT YOU’RE PURSUING?
I’ve been studying and delving into the property game. Also creating something to help people on their fitness journey.
HOW DO YOU REMAIN CENTRED WITH SUCH A BUSY SCHEDULE?
I think that’s down to how I was raised. My occupation or “status” doesn’t define me.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 10 YEARS?
Hollywood!
PLEASE SHARE ANY ADVICE YOU HAVE FOR YOUNGSTERS HOPING TO GET INTO THE INDUSTRY.
There will be many rejections and reasons to quit. KNOW YOUR WHY! Manners and kindness will open more doors than money or fame.
QUICK CATCH-UP WITH LUNGA SHABALALA
Reviewed by Michelle Pienaar
on
March 19, 2021
Rating:
Reviewed by Michelle Pienaar
on
March 19, 2021
Rating:
