– Skeem Saam’s Lydia Mokgokoloshi has cut down her filming schedule and quite understandably so – the lady is 80 years old – Lydia has been a firm favourite on Mzansi screens ever since she began her acting career in her early 40s in 1984 – Gogo Lydia is renowned for her portrayal of matriarch, Koko Mantsha, since the soapie’s inception in 2011 PAY ATTENTION: Click “See First” under the “Following” tab to seeNews on your News Feed! Skeem Saam viewers will be seeing less of Koko Mantsha in upcoming months. The show told Sowetan that the actress who portrays Koko Mantsha, Lydia Mokgokoloshi, has cut down on her acting schedule. Last Friday, fans were left wondering if they would ever see her character again after she moved away from Turfloop in Limpopo, where the story line is predominantly based.It was explained that Koko was going to her home for some peace of mind and to spend quality time with her brother Josias, who is played by Mahuma Rapetsoa.Skeem Saam spokesperson Sumaya Mogola said, “She will still be in and out of the story. She just won’t be shooting as much as she used to. Our shooting schedule gets really hectic at times and we don’t want to wear her out.” Sumaya explained that Mam’ Lydia being 80 years old was definitely a factor in the decision. “She is at a very sensitive age so she needs as much rest, care and comfort as possible.”Skeem Saam’s Lydia Mokgokoloshi cuts down her shooting schedule Source: Instagram READ ALSO: Ayanda Borotho getting ready to say goodbye to Isibaya’s Duma Lydia is truly proof that, with dedication and hard work, dreams can come true. The talented star was born in the small village of Botlokwa in Limpopo. She was a schoolteacher for more than 20 years in Soweto and only decided to pursue her acting passion in her late 40s. Now, she’s opn the most-watched soapie in the country.