The tale of how actor Lemogang Tsipa transformed into great Zulu warrior Shaka.
Lemogang Tsipa doesn’t live in a fantasy world, where everything is all sunshine and roses. He welcomes the mixed reception of his casting in the much-anticipated series Shaka Ilembe, where he will bring to life the iconic Zulu warrior king.
But it all falls into place when we escape into a quiet room for an extensive chat about his surprise casting as the founder of the Zulu empire. While his casting was announced in late May, he had inked his contact on March 16 — a date he will never forget. This after going through four audition processes starting back in November. And filming scantily clad in a harsh cold winter in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal was no breeze.
He played both the younger and older version of the character, dropping to 68kg to capture teen Shaka. Then he had a month to gain the weight back and go up to 76kg. To achieve this his breakfast consisted of six eggs and two sausages, muesli, yogurt, and fruit. His lunch would include 500g rice and 250g chicken, and he’d have protein shakes all day.
Tsipa also feels that it’s inevitable that when the show premieres next year his portrayal will be compared to that of Henry Cele, who played the role in the 1986 mini-series Shaka Zulu. He currently features in Showmax series Blood Psalms and is fresh off leading the Mzansi Magic drama The Republic. He admits that it has been a conscious decision to avoid doing local soapies.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Could this be the long-awaited downfall of blogger Musa Khawula?Could this be the long-awaited downfall of blogger Musa Khawula? 'Toxic king' Musa Khawula has been temporarily suspended from Twitter...this in the same week the blogger has made his appearance in court.
Read more »
Springboks’ target is a bonus-point win, nothing less in Kings Park ‘final’As they approach the crunch Rugby Championship clash against Argentina at Kings Park on Saturday Springbok stars Makazole Mapimpi and Pieter-Steph du Toit exude calmness.
Read more »
Feed Mzansi | Chef Charné Sampson makes mealtime happier for 144 little boys and girlsSPONSORED: Vroom, vroom! Feed Mzansi makes another stop in Cape Town. Watch as Chef Charné Sampson joins Feeding with Passion NPC to prepare a well-balanced meal packed with health benefits and stacks of flavour. | FoodLoversMkt
Read more »
Make Zola Nene’s rainbow coleslaw this Heritage weekendHer fabulously easy recipe comes with a secret ingredient that makes it extra creamy yummy.
Read more »