Rhythm City is changing its rhythm

Over the next three months, new characters will be introduced to the youth-focused show. Among them is former Big Brother Mzansi housemate Mzamo Gcabashe, veteran actress Camilla Waldman and former Crazed Out presenter Zola Hashatsi.

Earlier this month, speculation was rife that fired Generations actor Menzi Ngubane would be joining Rhythm City as a lead. But e.tv publicity manager Boniswa Matshoba has denied this.

“Someone saw him (Menzi Ngubane) at Quizzical Pictures (the production company for Rhythm City) and assumed he was there to speak about a role in Rhythm City. But he is definitely not joining the show.”

BUDDING ACTOR. Former Big Brother housemate Mzamo Gcabashe is excited about being on Rhythm City. Picture: supplied

Waldman joins Rhythm City as a character named Doctor Ongers. She will be acting alongside ex-husband Jamie Bartlett (David Genaro).

Gcabashe, who has gained a massive fanbase as a result of being on Big Brother Mzansi, will play a hairdresser named Jamaica. In his first acting role, he hopes to bring authenticity to a gay television character.

“It’s not often people get to see a gay character being played by a gay actor,” he says.

Camilla Waldman. Picture: supplied

“I always feel so disturbed when heterosexual people play gay roles because there is always exaggeration that can come across as mocking. It can be very offensive.”

While being on Rhythm City is a dream come true for Gcabashe, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing for the budding actor.

“Coming from a reality show where I was just being myself, it was hard for me to adapt to the discipline and structure needed for acting.

“You also don’t have a lot of control as an actor: you have to portray a character created by someone else as best you can.”

Zola Hashatsi. Picture: supplied

Of all the Rhythm City actors he has been watching for years Gcabashe is most excited to get to know Pam Andrews, who plays Gail October.

“I’ve respected her since I first saw her on Coca-Cola Pop Stars. I love the fact she works hard and has managed to stay relevant in the entertainment industry long after most of the Pop Stars have disappeared.”

On being the Big Brother contestant who has received the greatest benefit from his appearance on the reality show, Gcabashe says: “When I was on the show, I was constantly thinking about my life after it. I knew I had to carry myself in a way that would not jeopardise the plans I had for myself.

“I think other former Big Brother housemates are struggling to be taken seriously in the industry because of the things they did in the house.”