'Professional jealousy exists! — Sello Maake ka Ncube laments being snubbed

Posting a 2022 article about an alleged snub by the Joburg Theatre, veteran actor Sello Maake ka Ncube has lamented not being given due credit for his talent and contribution to the industry.

Posting a screenshot of an old City Press profile in which the actor slammed the theatre for not including him on its walk of fame at its Diamond Jubilee Evening of Celebration that honoured the likes of Mbongeni Ngema, Connie Chiume, Johnny Clegg and John Kani, Sello used his Instagram to get a few things off his chest.

“Blessed Sunday, I thought I should address this once and for all,” his post began.

“There is nothing new here! Professional jealousy exists and it’s a disease that will eat them silently. They can’t take away my talent nor my contribution to the arts! When you know you are great, you have no reason to hate!”

Pre-empting those who may accuse him of having a heavy dose of entitlement, the veteran actor said that wasn't the case and he was speaking out because he felt like the snub was part of a “deliberate career assassination”.

“Many may think I have a sense of entitlement but this is a deliberate career assassination by people in the industry who are not even my peers! There are people who think they are demigods and can decide who is worthy of being recognised, I have given over four decades of my life to this industry and still counting.”

In the comments section, Sello's industry peers sang his praises.

Sbongile Mlotshwa, a makeup artist in the TV and film industry, said Sello must concentrate on his talent and know that the recognition he deserves will come in due time.

“Hey Sello, I’m glad you openly spoke about it. Most people are in soapy world that has created work for most of us. Wait for the source because we work in a weird environment where most people don’t appreciate your efforts, until someone internationally recognises you — then, only then, they realise you are an asset. Focus on your mission on earth and God will do it for you,” said Mlotshwa.

His publicist-turned-wife Pearl also joined in: “They can steal Archie's [star] but they can never take away your shine. You were born for greatness and great you are. They must ask me — I know. I married a phenomenal thespian, among your many other qualities. Here is your star, wena monnaka!”

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