Beloved actress Sophie Ndaba, fondly remembered as Queen Moroka from the iconic soap opera Generations, is making a triumphant return to the small screen. Ndaba stars in the new Showmax drama series, 016FM, which explores youth culture in the Vaal, named after the region’s dialing code.
Ndaba, speaking to ZiMoja, shared that she was specifically sought out for the role. “They called me and asked if I’d be interested in doing a self-tape for the character, and they loved how I emulated the character and confirmed to me that’s the role I’ll play in a few days,” she revealed. Ndaba’s seasoned talent, honed over years in the industry, brings a wealth of experience to the show’s ensemble cast.
016FM features a star-studded lineup including Nthati Moshesh, Sello Motloung, Mapula Mafole, Mapaseka Koetle, Katlego Mabote, Noni Mafani, and Mbasa Msongelo. The late Mpho Sebeng, who tragically passed away in a car accident last month, also contributed to the series.
Reflecting on her extensive career, Ndaba has graced many popular shows such as Isidingo, House of Zwide, Gog’ Helen, and Lockdown. On her new role, she emphasised the importance of collaboration and dedication to character development. “Being a great actor is not about doing a one take in all scenes, but rather bringing the character to life and working seamlessly well with your co-actors. We worked well on 016FM. Working with the new team is about sharing how they respect and feel honoured to have an opportunity to share a space/stage with you, especially the new kids on the block. It was awesome on 016FM from the producers, crew, and talent. They truly made my experience on set great and memorable.”
Despite her many roles, Ndaba is still affectionately known as Queen by her fans. “Most of my fans still call me ‘Queen’. The name has been in their hearts, minds, and homes for a long time. You can’t just delete her. It’s amazing to watch how they still refer to me as her. She (Queen) truly made and left that mark in their lives. I have no issues with that.”
As she embarks on this new chapter, Ndaba’s return is eagerly anticipated by her fans, old and new, who are excited to see her light up their screens once again in 016FM.
