Nambitha Ben-Mazwi, famously known as Lady Nam, has fast become one of SA’s respected and loved on-screen talents. Her work continues to speak for itself, as she continues to deliver exceptional portrayals of different characters.
She last left the audience in awe following her villainous role as Shado on Scandal!, and while viewers have been waiting for her return, The Queen scooped up the most fitting role for her to tackle, a New York-born African American, Shaqueesha.
The actress has an international range with her work, having last featured on the award-winning US hit show, Black Mirror. Having also lived in New York herself, the local audience will get to enjoy her international range through the American role.
“Maintaining an American dialect, while also tapping into and becoming a mentally unstable character with a deep and traumatic/troubling, past has been so fulfilling to play,” Ben-Mazwi said
“Something in me shifted. I was set to leave a mark through this role and give it my absolute all, and the audience will see a shift in me through my performance. I accessed parts of me that I never knew existed, I surprised myself, but not really. I’ve been yearning for more challenges in stories, and this role was the well-packaged challenge I sought. I stay waiting for opportunities to showcase more of my depth and range, and I know this storyline will unlock a new breakthrough in my career. It’s only just the beginning.”
Ben-Mazwi said she was excited for the impact the story in itself will have on people. There is a message always to how she delivers and carefully plays her roles.
“I am a thespian who is driven by purpose, so if my performance doesn’t move or leave you changed and shook, I have not done my job.This storyline is such a sensitive and important one to tell, and I hope the audience doesn’t get caught up by the distractions (her energy takes over!) As much as there is so much humour and entertainment in her, there is also healing in Shaqueesha,” she said.
Ben-Mazwi is set to grace the small screen as Shaqueesha on The Queen from 6 January.
