Freedom the inspiration for new drama ‘Sinners and Saints’

Mandela’s quote couldn’t be more fitting for the actors behind the show’s leading characters. As some of the country’s most popular personalities, the actors inspire millions to make the most of what South Africa has to offer – on and off the small screen.

Former Isidingo actor Tshepo Maseko was thrilled when he got a role on the drama series.

Tshepho Maseko wants to break away from his previous character on Isidingo. Picture: Supplied

“It’s a great opportunity for me to finally shake off the character that I played on Isidingo,” he says. “My character Thabang is very similar to the person I am. He is a very family-orientated man who wants to have a positive impact on society.”

After leaving Isidingo in 2010, Maseko became involved in motivational speaking. He became the ambassador of Star for Life – a youth-based NGO focused on empowering young people. He also became involved in projects to get more men mentoring and supporting young boys who don’t have father figures in their lives.

“I often wondered why God won’t bless my wife and I with a son, but then I realised there are so many boys in this country that I can be a father figure to,” he says with a smile.

Sdumo Mtshali is living his dream as an actor. Picture: Gallo Images

Growing up, Sdumo Mtshali dreamed of becoming a movie star. After winning SABC1’s reality TV competition Class Act in 2010, Mtshali has had leading roles on Intersexions, Rhythm City and Isibaya. He also recently made his dream come true when he starred in the movie iNumber Number. Despite the expected difficulties in the entertainment industry, Mtshali strives to prove to the youth that with hard work and passion anything is possible – something which Siyabonga Radebe understands all too well.

Siyabonga Radebe is also a stand up comedian. Picture: Gallo Images

Having worked hard to make a name for himself as an actor and a comedian, Radebe is perhaps the busiest he has ever been in his career. After shooting a commercial with American actor Idris Elba, Radebe also starred in the movie Between Friends which is due for release in August. But his role on Sinners and Saints is his biggest challenge.

“Sinners and Saints is a real story about township life. When you grow up in the township you can either end up working really hard to get out of it, or you can let it consume you. If it consumes you, you could find yourself turning to things like crime and drugs. I was able to play this role because I channelled a friend of mine who I grew up with, but who decided to go in the wrong direction in his life.”

With Maseko, Mtshali, Radebe and Tumisho Masha at the forefront of the drama, Sinners and Saints hopes to tell an authentic story about the lives of many South Africans.

“It’s a difficult story to tell, but a beautiful one nonetheless,” says Maseko.

For more information, visit mzansimagic.dstv.com