South African actor Given Stuurman is reflecting on his latest role in Netflix’s Umthetho, where he takes on the character of Sphelele Dlamini.
The actor is grateful for the opportunity to bring the character to life and has opened up about the emotional experience of stepping into Sphelele’s shoes.
In Umthetho, Sphelele is the younger brother of Mbali, played by Nqobile ‘Nunu’ Khumalo, and Moses, played by Tony Kgoroge. He is a young man trying to find his place in society while dealing with the complicated dynamics within his family.
Sphelele’s life takes an unexpected turn when he discovers that he is about to become a father. He then has to step up for his partner and their child while trying to navigate his own journey into adulthood.
Taking to Instagram, Stuurman reflected on how deeply the role affected him.
“There are some characters you play, and then there are some characters you experience. Sphelele was definitely the latter.
This journey demanded a lot from me emotionally. There were moments on set that challenged me, stretched me and forced me to go places within myself that weren’t always easy to visit. And for that reason, I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who stood beside me throughout this process – especially my cast and crew, for their patience, understanding, support and for bearing with me through the more emotionally challenging days.”
The actor also expressed his appreciation to South African viewers for continuing to support his career.
“And to South African audiences – you have supported me through so many chapters of my career, and I genuinely cannot thank you enough. Your love, conversations, criticism, encouragement and willingness to continue watching and supporting the work mean more than you know.
I hope you enjoy getting to know Sphelele as much as I enjoyed – and sometimes struggled – to bring him to life. So sit back, watch, feel, question, laugh, cry and take the journey with us. Sphelele is here. And the journey begins now.”
Stuurman also took a moment to reflect on his journey with Netflix, which began in 2020 with Jiva!.
“Sometimes you have to pause and look back at the journey to truly appreciate how far you’ve come.
My journey with Netflix started back in 2020 with Jiva!, and somehow, the chapters have continued to unfold – from Piano Love, to now #UMTHETHO
I’m deeply grateful for every opportunity, every set, every lesson, every person l’ve had the privilege of working alongside, and every story l’ve been trusted to be a part of. Each project has given me something different and has played a small part in shaping the artist and person I am today.
To be able to look back and say, “I’ve been part of this journey for years,” is something I’ll never take for granted.”
Stuurman also thanked his co-stars Tony Kgoroge, Nqobile Khumalo, Sindi Dlathu, Lorcia Cooper and SK Khoza for being part of the journey.
With Sphelele now introduced to viewers, Stuurman hopes audiences will connect with the character, while also taking the time to experience the highs, lows and challenges that come with his story.
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