Nhlanhla Kunene unpacks Eric's journey in Adulting S3

The final season of Adulting premieres on 25 January 2025, with new episodes every Saturday. In the third and final season of Adulting, the stakes are higher and the guys are more mature and wiser. Bonga is newly married, Mpho is freshly divorced, Vuyani is about to open his dream nightclub, and Eric is trying to embrace a 9 to 5 car service centre job, with a boss. 

2024 SAFTA Best Actor winner Thembinkosi Mthembu (Shaka iLembe) is back as Bonga, with Nhlanhla Kunene returning in his SAFTA-nominated role as Tsiki Tsiki, alongside Thabiso Rammusi and Luthando BU Mthembu as Mpho and Vuyani.

Produced by Tshedza Pictures (Youngins, 2024 SAFTA Best Telenovela winner Outlaws), the 18DLNSV bromance holds the record for the most-watched launch of any drama series on Showmax. 

Watch the trailer for Adulting S3

Zibuyile Dladla caught up with Nhlanhla to find out what Adulting Season 3 has in store for Tsiki Tsiki, aka Eric. 

How will viewers see Eric navigate life as a single father raising a teenage daughter this season?

Viewers are in for a ride! Eric has grown significantly. This season is so well-written and layered that every decision he makes feels authentic and grounded. Audiences will be taken on a journey, witnessing how and why Eric makes certain choices. His growth will keep viewers glued to the screen as the story comes full circle. 

Eric and Bonga share a special brotherhood. How will this evolve in the new season?

This season, their brotherhood becomes stronger and more honest. Previously, Bonga tolerated Eric’s mistakes, but now it’s about telling hard truths. The writers have done an exceptional job showing the growth in their friendship. It’s no longer just about friends living life; it’s about friends holding each other accountable.

You’ve left a lasting impression on viewers. How do you feel about Eric’s trajectory throughout the three seasons?

Eric resonates with viewers because he’s relatable. Everyone knows someone like him, if not directly, then through others. This season sheds even more layers of his personality, and viewers are in for a shock. I hope it continues to feel truthful to the audience.

Is Eric addressing his abandonment issues this season?

Yes, but in a different way. He begins to receive the love he’s always yearned for, though he’s scared to accept it. Viewers will see his vulnerability - not because he’s in danger, but because he’s finally experiencing something meaningful.

What was it like working with Mam’Nandi Nyembe, who plays a mother figure in Eric’s life?

It was a blessing. Mam’Nandi brings decades of experience, so every scene with her is a masterclass. She draws from her own life and delivers such authenticity that you can’t help but learn from her. Working with her taught me the importance of discipline and being truthful in every moment.

How does trust between co-stars impact performances, particularly during intimate scenes?

Trust is everything, especially when dealing with sensitive scenes. We have intimacy workshops where we discuss boundaries, like green and red zones, to ensure everyone feels safe. But beyond the workshop, it’s up to the performers to respect and reinforce those boundaries. Open communication before and during filming builds trust, which enhances the performance.

Did you hesitate to take on the role because of the sexual scenes? What made you accept it?

Yes, I hesitated at first. Those scenes stay online forever, and people can fixate on them, overshadowing your other work. Ultimately, I decided to embrace the challenge. If you want to be a true storyteller, you have to give your all but without compromising your craft.

How do you handle the audience’s perception of intimacy scenes?

You can’t control how people perceive you. I remind myself that what they see isn’t real - it’s acting. Ngiyakholwa mina (I’m a believer) and acting is a mental discipline. Also, I’m not that active on social media, which helps me avoid comments that could affect my work. Self-awareness is crucial for drawing the line between yourself and your character.

While you wait for Season 3, binge the first two seasons of Adulting on Showmax.

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