South African movie actors born in the year 1982
Here are 6 famous actors from South Africa were born in 1982:
Martin Phike
Martin Phike (June 3, 1982-) is a South African singer and actor.
He was born in Soweto, a township in Johannesburg, South Africa. Martin grew up in a musical family and began singing at a young age. He rose to fame after participating in the singing competition, Idols South Africa, in 2003, where he finished as the runner-up. He went on to release his debut album, "The Martin Phikejulu Story," in 2004, which received critical acclaim and established him as a top-selling artist in South Africa. Martin has since released several other successful albums and is known for his unique blend of African gospel and R&B music. In addition to his music career, Martin has also made a name for himself as an actor, appearing in popular South African TV shows and films such as "Uzalo" and "Tsotsi."
Martin has won several awards over the years, including the South African Music Award for Best RandB/Urban Album in 2008 for his album "12 years of Martin Phike." He has also been nominated for numerous other accolades, showcasing his immense talent and popularity in the music industry. Martin is known for his philanthropy and has participated in several charity events to give back to his community. He has also used his platform to raise awareness about social issues such as poverty, HIV/AIDS, and gender inequality. Martin is considered a role model to many young people in South Africa, and his music and acting career continue to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
Additionally, Martin Phike is a trained graphic designer, having obtained his qualification in 2001 from the Johannesburg School of Art. He started working as a graphic designer after his first stint on Idols, but eventually chose to pursue music full-time. Martin's music has also gained international recognition, with several of his songs being playlisted on international radio stations and having performed on international stages in places such as London, New York, and Los Angeles. Martin's popularity and talent have led to him being featured in several high-profile collaborations, including collaborating with other South African artists such as Mafikizolo, Black Coffee, and Maphorisa. Martin is also constantly exploring new avenues of creativity and has delved into entrepreneurship, launching his own record label, MoFaya Entertainment, which aims to provide opportunities for young and upcoming artists in South Africa. Overall, Martin Phike's immense talent, philanthropy, and entrepreneurial spirit showcase his ability to positively impact his community and the world at large.
Thapelo Mokoena
Thapelo Mokoena (October 21, 1982 South Africa-) a.k.a. Thapelo Archibald Sfufane Mokoena is a South African actor and presenter.
He was born in Soweto, South Africa and graduated from the National School of the Arts. Mokoena began his career as a presenter for the children's show "Yizo Yizo" and later became a popular face on South African television, hosting shows such as "Top Billing" and "So You Think You Can Dance South Africa".
Mokoena has also had a successful acting career, receiving critical acclaim for his roles in films such as "Gangster's Paradise: Jerusalema" and "Man on Ground". He has also appeared in international films such as "Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom" and worked alongside Hollywood actors such as Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg in the action-comedy film "2 Guns".
In addition to his acting and presenting work, Mokoena is also known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting various charities and initiatives that aim to improve the lives of young people in South Africa.
Mokoena has won several awards for his contributions to the entertainment industry in South Africa, including the Golden Horn Award for Best Actor in a TV Drama for his role in the series "Jacob's Cross". He is also a talented athlete, having represented his country in both rugby and athletics at a young age. Mokoena is married to Lesego-Tshepang Mokoena and the couple has two children together. In 2019, he founded a production company, Blok Party Media, that focuses on creating content for African audiences. Despite his success, Mokoena remains grounded and is committed to giving back to his community. He frequently mentors young people and encourages them to pursue their dreams.
Mokoena has been very vocal about social issues affecting South Africa, particularly around gender-based violence and racial inequality. He has used his platform to speak out against these issues and has actively campaigned for change. In 2018, he was appointed as a UNICEF National Ambassador for the Tap Campaign, which aims to provide access to clean water and sanitation to those who need it most.
Aside from his work in entertainment and philanthropy, Mokoena is also known for his fashion sense and has been named as one of South Africa's most stylish men. He has also been a brand ambassador for various companies, including Audi and Hugo Boss.
Overall, Thapelo Mokoena is a multi-talented individual who has made a significant impact in the entertainment industry in South Africa and beyond. His commitment to social causes and giving back to his community continues to inspire others, making him a role model and respected figure in the country.
Mzwandile Ngubeni
Mzwandile Ngubeni (April 17, 1982 South Africa-) is a South African actor.
He is best known for his role as Detective Sergeant UC Endurance in the SABC1 police drama series, "Zone 14". Ngubeni graduated from the Market Theatre Laboratory and began his career in theatre before transitioning to television and film. He has also appeared in other popular South African TV shows such as "Isibaya", "The Queen", and "Generations: The Legacy". In addition to his acting career, Ngubeni is also a radio host on Kaya FM, and has hosted the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs). Outside of the entertainment industry, Ngubeni is an activist for various social causes, such as mental health and gender-based violence.
Ngubeni's advocacy for mental health stems from his own struggles with depression and anxiety, which he has been open about. He has also been involved in various campaigns and initiatives to raise awareness about mental health issues in South Africa. In 2020, he was appointed as a National Stigma Ambassador for the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG).
In addition to his activism around mental health, Ngubeni has been a vocal advocate for gender equality and the prevention of gender-based violence in South Africa. He has participated in marches and campaigns, and has used his platform as a public figure to raise awareness and speak out against these issues.
Ngubeni has been recognized for his work as an actor and activist. In 2013, he was nominated for a SAFTA for his role in "Zone 14". In 2020, he was named as one of the Mail & Guardian's Top 200 Young South Africans for his contributions to the arts and activism.
In addition to his acting and advocacy work, Mzwandile Ngubeni is also a writer and director. He wrote, directed, and produced a short film called "Black Tax" which was well-received and premiered at the Durban International Film Festival in 2019. Ngubeni is also a motivational speaker and has given talks at schools and universities, inspiring young people to pursue their dreams and overcome obstacles. He is currently based in Johannesburg but has also worked on film and television projects in other parts of Africa and the world. In his free time, Ngubeni enjoys playing basketball and reading books on psychology and self-help. He is known for his positive energy and infectious laughter, which has made him a beloved figure among fans and colleagues.
Owen Swanson
Owen Swanson (April 26, 1982-) is a South African actor.
He is best known for his roles in "The Wild" and "Isidingo", two popular South African soap operas. Swanson began his acting career in theater before transitioning to television and film. In addition to his work on the small screen, he has also appeared in feature films, including "Hard to Get" and "The Salvation". Swanson is also an accomplished musician and has released several singles and albums. He is a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation and supports a number of conservation organizations in South Africa. Outside of his work in entertainment and conservation, Swanson is actively involved in charity work and has volunteered with organizations that focus on poverty relief and education.
Swanson was born in Cape Town, South Africa, and grew up in a family of artists and musicians, which inspired his love for the arts. He studied drama at the University of Cape Town, where he gained extensive training in the performing arts. After completing his studies, Swanson landed his first role in a stage production of "West Side Story," which led to numerous other theater roles.
Swanson's breakthrough role came when he was cast as Rhynard in the popular South African soap opera, "Isidingo." His performance was well-received, and he went on to appear in numerous other television shows and films in South Africa. In 2010, he joined the cast of "The Wild," a television drama series set in a wildlife reserve, where he played the role of Ryan.
As a musician, Swanson blends elements of rock, pop, and soul into his music. He has released several successful singles and his debut album, "Unselected Works," gained critical acclaim in South Africa. In addition to his music career, Swanson is also a talented songwriter and has written songs for other artists.
Swanson's passion for wildlife conservation led him to become an ambassador for the Endangered Wildlife Trust, a South African conservation organization. He also supports other conservation organizations such as Save the Rhino and the African Wildlife Foundation. His efforts have helped raise awareness about the plight of endangered species and the importance of conservation efforts in South Africa.
Overall, Owen Swanson is a multitalented artist and passionate conservationist who has made a significant impact in South Africa's entertainment industry and conservation efforts.
Swanson has also been recognized for his work in both acting and music. He has been nominated for several awards, including a SAFTA (South African Film and Television Award) for Best Actor in a TV Soap, as well as a SAMRO (South African Music Rights Organization) award for Best Pop Song. In addition to his nominations, Swanson has won several awards for his music, including a SAMA (South African Music Award) for Best Adult Contemporary Album for "Unselected Works."
In 2015, Swanson took a break from acting and music to focus on his conservation work. He hiked the length of South Africa, from the border with Zimbabwe to the border with Mozambique, to raise awareness about conservation issues and to raise funds for the Endangered Wildlife Trust. The hike took him over three months and covered over 1,600 kilometers.
Swanson continues to be actively involved in his charity work and conservation efforts, as well as pursuing his career in acting and music. He is known for his down-to-earth personality and his dedication to making a positive impact in the world.
Thami Mngqolo
Thami Mngqolo (September 9, 1982-) is a South African actor.
He is best known for his role as the character Senzo Dlomo on the popular South African soap opera, Generations. Born and raised in Soweto, Mngqolo started his acting career in the early 2000s, appearing in various stage productions before breaking into television. In addition to Generations, he has also appeared on other TV shows such as Soul City, Zone 14 and Yizo Yizo. Mngqolo has received several awards for his acting, including a Golden Horn for Best Actor in a TV Soap. He is also an advocate for mental health awareness and has spoken publicly about his own struggles with depression.
Mngqolo is a graduate of the University of the Witwatersrand, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dramatic Arts. He has also lent his talents to film, appearing in movies such as "The Flyer" and "Inside Story". In addition to acting, Mngqolo is involved in various philanthropic projects, including the construction of a community center in Soweto. He is also a father and has been vocal about the importance of being a positive role model for his children. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, Mngqolo remains a respected figure in the South African entertainment industry and is known for his dedication to his craft and his community.
Mngqolo's career has not been without controversy. In 2014, he was involved in a physical altercation with a fellow cast member on the set of Generations, which led to his dismissal from the show. He later apologized for his actions and went on to pursue other acting opportunities. In 2019, he made a guest appearance on the popular South African drama series, The Queen. Mngqolo is also an entrepreneur and co-founder of a production company called Black Brain Pictures, which has produced hit TV shows such as Gaz'lam and City Ses'la. In his free time, Mngqolo enjoys playing golf and is a member of the South African Golf Association. He is also a fan of hip-hop music and has cited Tupac Shakur as one of his biggest influences. Despite being a public figure, Mngqolo is known for his private nature and prefers to keep details about his personal life out of the spotlight.
Meren Reddy
Meren Reddy (May 29, 1982-) is a South African actor.
Meren Reddy is a prominent figure in the South African entertainment industry with over a decade of experience in acting in various theatre productions, TV series, and movies. He started his acting career in 2003 when he appeared in the South African drama series titled "Egoli: Place of Gold." Meren is known for his memorable performances in popular TV series such as "Isidingo," "Isibaya," and "The Wild," among others. He has also acted in a few movies, including "The Bang Bang Club" and "Black South Easter."
Aside from being a talented actor, Meren is also a trained voice artist and radio presenter with an impressive record of hosting successful radio shows in South Africa. He has lent his voice talents to various commercials, documentaries, and animations.
Meren's hard work and dedication to the industry have earned him several accolades, including a SAFTA award nomination for Best Supporting Actor in a TV Drama series. He remains an inspiration to many young and aspiring actors in South Africa and beyond.
Meren Reddy has also made significant contributions as a writer and director. He wrote and directed a short film titled "I Am Not Them" which was released in 2014. The film, which explores the themes of identity and belonging, was well-received and screened at various film festivals.
Meren is also an advocate for social justice and uses his platform to address social issues affecting South Africa. He has been involved in various community-based initiatives and campaigns aimed at addressing issues such as poverty, gender-based violence, and inequality. He serves as an ambassador for the "Save the Children" organization, which focuses on improving the lives of children in poverty-stricken areas.
In addition to his artistic and humanitarian work, Meren is also an academic. He holds a Master's degree in Political Science from the University of Witwatersrand and is currently pursuing a PhD in the same field. He is passionate about using his academic work to address social issues and has published several articles and papers on the intersection of politics and race in South Africa.
Meren Reddy continues to leave an indelible mark in the South African entertainment industry and beyond. His talent, hard work, and dedication to social justice make him a role model for many.
Meren Reddy's acting prowess has taken him beyond South Africa's borders. He has performed in several international theatre productions, including "Black and Blue," which was performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Meren's repertoire expands beyond acting, as he is an accomplished singer and musician. He has sung on various soundtracks for TV series and movies. In 2020, he released his debut EP titled "Modern Man," which showcased his talent as a singer-songwriter. Meren is a versatile artist who is not afraid to take on challenging roles and explore new avenues. Despite his success, Meren remains humble and grounded. He acknowledges the challenges of being a person of color in the entertainment industry and uses his platform to pave the way for future generations of artists. Meren's work both on and off-screen is a testament to his commitment to excellence, social justice, and the arts.