In a candid and deeply introspective conversation on the “Relebogile Mabotja” podcast, veteran South African actor Sello Maake KaNcube opened up about his personal growth, his journey in the entertainment industry, and his views on pressing societal issues such as gender-based violence (GBV). Known for his powerful performances in “Blood & Water,” Maake KaNcube reflected on the challenges faced by black actors, both in his time and in the current generation. He expressed concern that many young actors coming out of prestigious institutions like WITS and UCT lack the depth of experience that seasoned actors like him bring to their craft. He noted that modern performances often feel overly dramatic or detached from the reality he knows, drawing a sharp distinction between good and bad acting, with the latter becoming more prevalent in the industry.
Maake KaNcube also took time to clear up misconceptions surrounding his personal life, particularly the rumors surrounding his split from Pearl Mbewe. He emphasized the immense power and influence of women in his life, acknowledging that much of his own growth was shaped by his relationships with strong women who provided him with the space to reflect and become vocal about his journey. He likened relationships to contracts, citing his own marriage as an example, where open communication and mutual recognition of each other’s strengths played a key role in maintaining balance between personal and professional lives.
In one of the most poignant parts of the interview, Maake KaNcube discussed his past struggles with abuse, sharing a deeply personal account of how he once became abusive in a relationship. He recalled a moment in his youth, at the age of 24, when he realized that his insecurities and emotional turmoil had led him to hurt his girlfriend. Reflecting on this painful chapter, he shared how listening to a Clement Manyathela interview with an elderly woman who had lived through gender-based violence profoundly impacted him. He recognized that GBV is not a modern issue but something deeply entrenched in South African society, one that has existed for generations and remains largely unaddressed.
The actor acknowledged his own role in perpetuating toxic behaviors and explained that his anger often stemmed from feelings of insecurity, jealousy, and even a stutter that made it difficult for him to communicate effectively. He confessed that his inability to express himself led him to lash out, especially in moments of frustration. However, over time, he learned valuable lessons in self-control and reflection, ultimately adopting a practice he called “timeout,” where he would remove himself from heated situations to cool down and return later to resolve conflicts peacefully.
Maake KaNcube’s revelations serve not only as an eye-opening personal account but also as a broader reflection on the societal need to address GBV in all its forms. He pointed out the importance of distinguishing between different types of violence, from domestic abuse to sexual violence, and called for more nuanced discussions around these issues. His openness about his past struggles and the introspective journey he has undergone offers a powerful message of hope and transformation, proving that confronting one’s demons can lead to personal healing and, ultimately, positive change in the community.
