As BET Africa prepares to premiere “Pound 4 Pound”, the actors behind the drama series are sharing what it took to bring their dynamic characters to life. The 13-part series, which delves into the intense world of women’s boxing in Africa, features a powerful cast led by Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa and Mduduzi Mabaso Mdakane, who both took on unique challenges with their roles.
According to IOL, Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa steps into the shoes of Lindiwe Mkhwanazi, a strong-willed advocate for women’s boxing and the COO of the South African Boxing Federation. For Mlotshwa, playing Lindiwe was an empowering yet demanding experience. “Lindiwe is an extremely strong woman,” she shared. “I think I had to pull in for myself for this character.”
At the Paramount Summer Showcase, Mlotshwa explained that she didn’t have as much time as she would’ve liked to prepare for the role, but she found inspiration in real people. “In the short space that I did have to build Lindiwe, I took from people I know. She’s a very boyish girl, she’s not like Enhle,” she revealed. “Enhle’s a bit of a lady. I plan, Lindiwe just pounces and puts herself into spaces and says I’m here. That’s exactly what her ethos is: ‘I’m here, and you’re just going to make it work.'”
Mlotshwa’s character finds herself facing obstacles after prematurely registering an all-women’s boxing team for the Africa Unite Boxing Championship in Lagos, Nigeria. To train the team, Lindiwe recruits Dingaan “Tiger” Nkosi, a once-great boxer who has lost his way, played by Mduduzi Mabaso Mdakane.
For Mabaso, the role of Dingaan was not only fun but also a chance to push his boundaries as an actor. “Playing Dingaan was fun. You know when you are around women you become a young boy,” he said, reflecting on his experience working closely with his female cast mates. He acknowledged the challenges of performing in a series where 80% of the dialogue is in English, but he welcomed the growth it brought to his career. “Playing Dingaan gave me something different and exposed me in terms of my career, acting as a skill, that I can do this.”
With an ensemble cast that includes Gabisile Tshabalala, Kealeboga Masango, Kwanele Mthethwa, Nicole Bessick, Sne Mbatha, Zolisa Xaluva, and Brandon Auret, “Pound 4 Pound” promises a thrilling and emotional journey into the world of women’s boxing.
The series premieres on September 29 at 6:30 pm on BET, DStv channel 129, and is set to captivate audiences with its mix of drama, passion, and resilience.
