27 September 2019
WATCH: Zamani Mbatha’s Grassroots story
You probably know Zamani Mbatha from his role on Mzansi Magic’s youth drama series iSthembiso. Although he has a promising career in acting, the journey that has led him to this point has not been easy.
In this exclusive interview, Zamani recalls how difficult it was to grow up in a single-parent home after the passing of his father. He remembers how he envied his childhood friends who still had father-figures in their lives.
However, it was and still is the strength and presence of his mother that has helped mould Zamani into the man he is today.
“When I was six, my dad passed on, and it hasn’t been very easy for me because I grew up around friends who either had both of their parents alive or their parents were married. But, I’ve always viewed, and I’ve always seen my mom as not only my mother but my dad as well.”
His journey to TV stardom also faced more hurdles: his competing love for soccer. In the end, it’s his acting talents that have made him famous.
Zamani further shares that relocating from KwaZulu-Natal to Johannesburg was not an easy decision to make and it affected him tremendously. But the constant support of his family and his growing belief in himself helped him get through the toughest of times while adjusting to a new environment.
If you love stories about the struggles of building a new life for yourself in a strange place and with unexpected allies, catch Grassroots every Friday at 19:30 on Showmax – new episodes arrive at the same time as they air on 1Magic.
Subterranea, now streaming
Nai-Rich on Showmax
The best movies to stream
The Exorcist star Ellen Burstyn on possession
The Exorcist: Believer, the chilling sequel to the 1973 film, starring Oscar winner Ellen Burstyn and Oscar nominee Leslie Odom Jr, is now streaming on Showmax.
8 movies to match your every mood
Whether you’re feeling anxious, joyful, or a bit lonely, there’s the perfect movie waiting for you on Showmax.
Horror countdown: 31 days of Halloween
Get ready for Showmax’s epic countdown to Halloween this October. From supernatural thrills to chilling horrors, there’s something for everyone. Stream now on Showmax.
Arthur the King and 10 more dog stars to love
Find out how Arthur the King became an adventure dog and meet 10 more stars who’re making us sit up and beg for more.