While looking back at the beloved characters he has brought to life over the years, from Intersexions to Isibaya, Sdumo Mtshali says his latest character Donga Shabalala has helped him take ownership of the black stories we tell.
While he has often taken on the role of responsible characters, his complex and slightly messed-up character on the latest telenovela My Brother's Keeper is set to pave a new path for the actor.
With the dust barely settled after the exit of the award-winning telenovela Gomora, My Brother’s Keeper has garnered positive reviews as its replacement this week, with special emphasis on its gripping storyline, cinematography, sharp dialogue and, ultimately, Mtshali’s performance.
Tackling what most would consider taboo issues, the show dives in on what the Zulu custom ukungenwa (marrying your deceased brother’s wife) means in the modern context. My Brother's Keeper also zooms in on sibling rivalry that could jeopardise the Shabalala empire and questions patriarchy as a whole.
The Shabalala siblings are played by Mtshali, Nkanyiso Mchunu, Wiseman Mncube, Mnqobi Kunene and Sparky Xulu, who are all gunning for their father’s unwavering approval. As is often the case, the older sibling bears most of the burden. Mthsali delivers a striking performance in many of his scenes as Donga.
“I remember being a kid and hearing people in taxis talking about shows such as Kwakhala Nyonini and Hlala Kwabafileyo and they would dissect the themes within those shows. Now I’m fortunate to play characters who drive the conversations within our society. Donga explores his identity as a black man, his cultural identity and the economic structures of his family.”
Stressing the importance of being accountable for what he puts out, Mtshali wants his impact to go beyond the screen.
“We’re at the forefront of storytelling and we have to be responsible for stirring conversations that ultimately progress the country forward. This show is all about that. I’m privileged that I get to tell stories that test my artistic abilities and stories that matter.”
Compared to characters Mtshali has played in other shows, he said Donga puts under scrutiny his moral dynamics and maturity, but mostly he isn’t drenched with violence to the bone.
My Brother’s Keeper airs on Mzansi Magic Channel 161 every week day at 7.30pm.
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