Israel Matseke Zulu, previously known as Israel Makoe, plays the role of Don Buthelezi on Gomora. The Don character on Gomora is a villain and long lost Teddy’s father. He comes back to Zodwa’s with his daughter Sibongile Buthelezi (played by Nandipha Khubone), seeking a place to stay. He joined London’s crew which specialized in hijacking cars and later became his own boss.

There are many reasons why we want more of Israel Matseke Zulu on our TV screens, but one reason that comes top of mind is because he’s one of the best actors to play the role of a gangster whether it be on a TV show or in a film. Famous for his voice tone, Don is a manipulating criminal who seeks to toil with people’s feelings and lives.
 

 

 

In real life Israel grew up using his mother’s last name Matseke up until he was in grade 9 and when his mother got married, the actor started using his step-father’s last name Makoe. Now, as a grown man Israel decided to use his late father’s last name Zulu, that’s why today he is known as Israel Matseke Zulu.

Israel is an Award-winning actor, a self-proclaimed Ghetto Professor, turned a dark moment into a shining light.

Disaster struck at the age of 14, in 1987, when Israel was involved in criminal activities. He was arrested for the first time at the age of 14 for theft, unlawful entry and burglary. In 1996 Israel was sentenced to eight years in prison; while he was serving his sentence, he fell in love with drama and live performance.
Don on Gomora – Israel formed the Abaqobi Drama Group.

While serving his jail sentence, Masteke Zulu formed the Abaqobi Drama Group with other inmates and groomed acting and live performing talent inside prisons. The group managed to secure stage performances at social gatherings.

Israel rose above all the hardships and managed to escape the life of gangsterism as he turned over a new leaf and began acting.

We first got introduced to this actor when he appeared on youth drama series Yizo Yizo as an imprisoned gang leader who caused havoc in prison. Although we all know being in prison is not child’s play, but he managed to make it look cool with his amazing acting skills.
The Tsotsitaal Dictionary

A few years ago, reports alleged that the actor – who is also a musician and a writer – would be publishing his own dictionary which would teach people township slang, also known as ‘Tsotsitaal’. He tells TRUELOVE that he recently lost the content of the book.

The book had quotes and idioms like a normal dictionary was essentially complete. “However, he’s optimistic about the future and says that he will rewrite the book and publish it in due course. Once the dictionary is out, he’ll then pen another book about his life.