Much can be said about actor Motlatsi Mafatshe but one thing that stands out is his ability to embody the characters he is applauded for today.
From the minute he grew into his personality as a young boy, Mafatshe knew film and television were his destiny.South African actor and musician Motlatsi Mafatshe just knew the entertainment world was where he needed to be. His destiny was known from a young age which allowed him to work hard towards it.
Motlatsi is best known for his role as Wandile Dhlomo in the e.tv soccer drama Shooting Stars, Sechaba on the popular SABC 3 soapie Isidingo and as Last Born in the SABC2 drama Hola Mpinji.
MOTLATSI KNEW ACTING WAS HIS CALLING FROM JUST A YOUNG BOY
Speaking to Sowetan LIVE, Motlatsi opened up about his journey to stardom. It was never a discovery thing for Motlatsi, he always knew where he wanted to be.
Motlatsi’s “ah-ha” moment was when his granny bought him and TV. He put his all into making it possible, including getting a tertiary education and making his mark in the Mzansi entertainment game.THE SOWETO-BORN STAR PAYS HOMAGE TO HIS MOTHER
Having been raised by a loving and supportive mother, Motlatsi knows it is because of her that he was able to fearlessly pursue his dreams.
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Catherine Nomgqibelo Woye Mafatshe was a guidance counsellor who is now a pastor too. She helped her supported her son tirelessly, and still does to this day. Motlatsi could not be more grateful for his momma.
“My mother was a guidance teacher, so it kind of makes no sense not to make it in life if your mother was the one who helped students identify what they wanted to do in life.
“She still comes to all my shows, even when I perform at a shebeen somewhere. Despite being a pastor my mother will make sure she’s there. That’s the reason why I do what I do, because of the love and support I receive.”
Motlatsi Mafatshe
FROM DIRECTOR TO ACTOR, MOTLATSI RECALLS HIS FIRST TIME ACTING
Motlatsi started out behind the camera, directing. On set of one of his first films, he remembers jumping in to help an actor out… unknowingly making his debut as an actor himself!
“I remember being dissatisfied with one of the actor’s performances when I was helping out a friend with directing a film. I then decided to take matters into my own hands and act out that role, which resulted in me being in the film. A lot of people thought I was so dope, even though I didn’t think that way at the time because I hadn’t studied acting.
“But by the time I went to auditions my confidence was quite clear. I wasn’t really nervous because I knew I had something special even though a lot of big names in the industry thought I was just in over my head.”