Ever since Obed Baloyi burst onto our TV screens as Ringo on Mzansi Magic’s hit telenovela Diep City, fans have been raving about his excellent acting and comedic skills.
If you’ve been wondered who this man is and why he has been able to entertain us and make us laugh so beautifully every evening then please continue reading below!
He started as a street vendor
Long before being a household name, Obed grew up in humble beginnings and used to make a living as a street vendor, selling his mother’s fruits and vegetables. “I helped my mother to sell fruit and vegetables in the street, just for me to get a better life and education. I also sold sweets at school just to bring money that will put bread on the table. I would go house to house selling. People would tease and laugh at how I said certain words when I went to their houses. They would actually ask me to repeat over and over again,” he joked.
Laughter is in his DNA.
For as long as he can remember, Obed has always been the funniest person in any room. “I was one of the darkest kids in school that got teased a lot. They used to tease me, but I got used to it because I started being the joker. I think being a joker helped my mother’s business grow because whenever someone wanted to buy something, they came straight to my mother’s market, and they knew whenever they leave, they left with laughter.” But that is not stall, he also has another hilarious story to share:
“During riots in the 80s, I remember going to school and there were soldiers in the street. I picked up a wig while going to school and soldiers called me to see if I was okay mentally, then they started laughing and told me to go to school. When I got inside the school yard, I got a standing ovation from schoolmates.” He revealed.
He hasn’t been so lucky in love
Although Ringtone might’ve found a soulmate in Khelina, Obed hasn’t been so lucky in the waking life. The actor is a divorcee but makes sure to take care of all four of his children!
He has been giving back to the community.
Obed understands the challenges of growing up in a township and has taken upon himself to pay it forward. ” I am running a Development Gauteng Art project where we go to prisons and discover those who are also interested in the art industry. We also do donations, and I am also a motivational speaker,” he said.
What does he love more? Theatre or TV?
Although he has been a favourite since the early days of Ga Re Dumele, Obed might have a softer spot for the art of stage acting. “ I stage played all my life until I made my debut in television, but theatre will always be my favourite.” He revealed.
What do you like about Ringo on Diep City? Drop a comment below.
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