10 May 2017
Cindy Swanepoel’s #ShowmaxAddiction
Cindy Swanepoel plays Dr Annelize Roux in Binnelanders. Here, she tells us more about her TV addictions and habits.
What are you working on at the moment that you’re excited about?
At the moment I only have time for Annelize Roux, and whatever the Binnelanders writing team comes up with for her. She is such a sneaky vixen that I am totally under her spell. I am also doing radio dramas, of which Hartebreker (on RSG) is currently the one to listen to every day (at 09:50).
What made you decide to get into television in the first place?
I never thought that I would be on a daily drama, as I never really thought I had the face for it. I was so fixated on theatre, that I never really allowed myself to go to a different medium – but then Ballade vir n Enkeling (the 2015 movie, in which I played Meisie Moolman) changed my viewpoint on the subject. And with the movie, came opportunity – and I grabbed it, and ran with it. And look at me now…
What’s the last series you binge-watched?
Westworld. The series makes you wonder about the life that we lead, and whether or not it is real. I love a good series that makes you take stock of your own life, and its reality.
What classic series do you rewatch over and over and why?
Friends. Comedy has always been one of my huge passions, and in Friends, it is taken to a new level. Their comic timing is impeccable, and the script is a joyride of giggles and gags. I really hope that one day I will be part of a series that is so timeless in its observation of the human spirit – and that it will be something that everyone would want to watch, again and again.
What’s your #ShowmaxAddiction?
What’s your favourite childhood show from South Africa?
Wielie Walie. I have a passion for puppetry too, and Sarel Seemonster and Karel Kraai were the beacons of light and hope in my life. One day, I want to create characters of that calibre too.
What’s the one show you love watching but wouldn’t admit to anyone else?
The Bachelor. I am not the classic rom-com girl, but there is something amazing about watching someone either fall in love, or stab someone in the back without any excuses. Reality is eye opening, ugly in its beauty.
What’s one classic film every one should watch?
Muriel’s Wedding. Toni Colette is a comedic genius, and I love Australian comedy – it is very appealing to the South African palate.
Original African stories by local talent
Vaal Riviera
Vaal Riviera follows four Afrikaans families living in the heart of Vaal River society, where family, business, car racing and legacy all come into play. Stream from 22 August, with new episodes on Tuesdays.
Made in South Africa
The ABC Killer
The ABC Killer is a twisty true-crime documentary series about serial killer Moses Sithole. Stream now on Showmax.
Made in South Africa
What if we believed the best can come from here?
Let’s rewrite the rules of what it means to be local.
Untied S1
Untied explores the deeply personal and often complex experience of divorce, told through the voices of women who have lived it. Stream now, with new episodes every Tuesday.
Made in South Africa
Reckless S1
Reckless follows a pair of young brothers who find themselves at a crossroads when a tragic accident changes their lives forever. Stream now, with new episodes every Monday and Tuesday.
Made in Kenya
The Mommy Club NBO
The Mommy Club NBO is the fifth instalment of the record-breaking Mommy Club franchise. Stream now, with new episodes every Friday.
Made in Kenya
Empini S1-2
Empini is a high-stakes, action-packed drama set in the ruthless, corrupt world of private security. Season 2 is now streaming, with new episodes every Tuesday.
Made in South Africa
Youngins S1-2
Stream Tshedza Pictures’s first teen drama, Showmax Original Youngins. S1 and S2 are ready to binge.
Made in South AfricaThe Mommy Club NBO now streaming
The Chocolate Empire, now streaming
The best movies to stream
Here, and 15 more great movies to cry about
Whether you’re looking to shed happy tears or shed part of your soul, we have movies centred on love in all its forms to help you, starting with Tom Hanks and Robin Wright’s Here.
The best kids’ shows and movies to stream during school holidays
Showmax has loads of fun to look forward to during school holidays in June/July 2025, including blockbuster movies for the whole family.
Elphaba and Glinda’s Wicked little guide
Find out what Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande have to say about Wicked, pick up 10 magical behind-the-scenes facts, and explore 7 more schools of witchcraft and wizardry.
Twisters and 5 other man-versus-nature nail biters
Tornado alert! A category F5 spin on the blockbuster 1996 movie Twister has just touched ground to sweep us up in the terrifying power of nature. Find out about how it was made, and what to watch next.