Actress Asanda Maku, who broke out on SABC 2’s Hectic Nine 9 and SABC 1’s drama Interrogation Room in 2007, took a break from the screen in 2012. Now she’s back with a new attitude and a new show. She tells us about her role as Buhle on etv’s B & B.
Welcome back to the industry, how are you feeling?
It feels awesome to be back and doing what I love. Confucius says, “Choose a job you love and you won’t need to work a day in your life.”
How did you get the role of Buhle?
I actually auditioned for B&B late last year, and I remember thinking that I killed it, but the producers were quiet for a while. So when they finally called me early this year and told me I got the role, I was over the moon!
Please tell us about Buhle, what is she about?
When I first saw the script and read about Buhle’s character, she reminded me of the Real Housewives of Atlanta and Tamar Braxton. She’s perceived to be a gold digger, but she really just wants to live the good life and always look good. She really does love her man and in-laws and is very protective over her son.
Any similarities between you and Buhle?
We both love to look good and are very proud of our African bodies, but I think she’s more high maintenance. I don’t actually wear freakum dresses, fake lashes, heels or manicure my nails every day like she does. We are hustlers and love the finer things in life and we both love our men, kid and families very much.
How was it like shooting B&B for you?
Anybody who knows me knows I love my sleep. So waking up every morning at 4am, including Saturdays, was rough but I must say after the first week, I got used to it. I also had vitamin B shots and the flu vaccine, which helped me get through shooting 26 episodes (laughs). It was tough leaving before my baby was up and sometimes getting back after she’s gone to bed. I had to remind myself that I was doing it for her.
What did you enjoy the most while shooting?
The cast and crew! They couldn’t have casted better people. I was blessed to work with such kind hearted and talented people. I learnt a lot from the amazing director, Mzu Mzazi.
What can viewers expect to see on the first episode?
Viewers can expect a lot of laughter. I think it’s our own Mzansi version of Modern Family with relatable topics like ancestors, homosexuality, mother-in-law drama, load shedding – you’ll need to watch before I give everything away. It starts on 4 July at 6:30pm on etv and every Saturday thereafter.
What’s next for Asanda?
I’ve really enjoyed acting on this sitcom. So I’d really love to explore more and get more acting roles, and of course still present, but we’ll see which comes first. I’m just ready to give the best of me. My dream is to Oprah it out and do it all within the industry.
About B&B
Set in the wrong side of Muldersdrift, the Beseni family operate a one-star B&B that attracts a buffet of hilarious guests. A few will be as manic as the B&B compatriots!
The sitcom stars popular South African actors such as Siphiwe Hlabangane (Duma “Boss” Beseni), Asanda Maku (Nobuhle “Buhle” Beseni), Thembaletu Ntuli (Cuba) and Marah Louw (Ma Mgcina).
Catch B & B on etv this Saturday, 4 July at 6:30pm.
