We speak to the one lady who’s played every woman, Zikhona Sodlaka.
What is your favourite TV show?
I’m following Breaking Bad right now; I was introduced to it earlier in the year. I’m also a great fan of The Fixer. I am always keen for a great story that’s well-written and well executed. These shows are unapologetically different and very smart.
You have played a tomboy in Tsha Tsha, alcoholic in Soul City, crazy woman in Entabeni and many other roles, which was the most challenging?
Entabeni, because I had to play the crazy Lady Macbeth. Regardless of the role however, I tend to have fun with the characters I play. They are all so different from me, which makes it that much more challenging and fun. I try not to play the same character twice. So far it’s been an alcoholic, singer and diva. Who knows what’s next.
Tell us about the experience of playing Nelson Mandela’s mother in “Long Walk to Freedom.”
Absolute bliss; I enjoyed playing that role. In an intense way it became very personal for me because I too am from the former Transkei and I get to see and experience the woman I played each time I go home. I loved it. It was the most authentic role i got to play in a movie.
What urged you to break into entertainment, even after studying Business Administration and Computer Science?
I focused on my studies because I wnated to study further but my career choice has always been steered towards the arts.
Besides acting, you also sing and do motivational talks. What inspired you to go into these ventures?
Life in itself is inspiration enough, we all have different paths but the journey is similar. Most times we make something out of nothing. My life is no different to the next woman’s. My life has been about perseverance and exercising choice. The attitude you have towards life will determine life’s attitude towards you. And for many other reasons, I speak to whoever cares to listen.
Can South Africa expect an album release anytime soon?
No album release just yet, but it will happen. Music is my first love.
