Gone are the days when Charlize Theron was the only A-list actress making it big time on big screens. South Africans are taking Hollywood by storm this year and we’re feeling extra proud of our homegrown talent.
Following the news of the incredible Capetonian documentary, My Octopus Teacher, bringing home an Oscar is the announcement of South African actress, Thuso Mbedu landing a role alongside an international film superstar.
Mbedu will be starring alongside the fabulous Viola Davis in the upcoming film The Woman King. Like, what!
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This Pietermaritzburg beauty was twice nominated for an Emmy Award for her performance in the telenovela Is’Thunzi, which has been called “one of the most compelling television programmes on South African television” by Mail & Guardian. And this is proving to be the beginning of a long Red Carpet road for the actress.
News of her latest achievement, The Woman King, comes just weeks before she makes her much-anticipated debut on Amazon Prime Video’s Underground Railroad, which airs on May 14.
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“The Woman King is a historical epic inspired by true events that took place in The Kingdom of Dahomey, one of the most powerful states of Africa in the 18th and 19th centuries. The story follows Nanisca, General of the all-female military unit, and Nawi, an ambitious recruit, who together fought enemies who violated their honour, enslaved their people, and threatened to destroy everything they’ve lived for,” said the films director, Gina Prince-Bythewood.
Mbedu was selected for the role based on her “depth and complexity of emotional life, her authentic beauty, and regalness.”
“Thuso is a generational talent. Her craft, her work ethic, her depth, her passion inspired us all and I cannot wait to play. She is a warrior,” continued Prince-Bythewood.
The sought after actress shared her excitement on Instagram saying, “Those who know, know. Let’s do it! What an honour!”
Porter Magazine featured the South African golden girl under The Names you Need to Watch in 2021. Thuso was also recently named on Essence Magazine’s global top 20 Black Hollywood Stars To Watch Out for 2021 list.
Well, we’re certainly watching!
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