Siv Ngesi on his SAFTA nomination for Showmax Original DAM

From starring in box office hits to the most groundbreaking TV shows in Mzansi, Siv Ngesi’s success has continued to rise at an accelerated rate.

He has led various chart-topping movies including Jahmil XT Qubeka’s film Knuckle City. His impressive filmography, which includes Bhai’s Cafe, Kaalgat Karel, DAM and Tali’s Baby Diary, is a certain that Siv is one of Mzansi’s highly sought-after actors.

Siv Ngesi already has a SAFTA under his belt, taking home the Most Popular Presenter award at the 2019 South African Film and Television Awards. This year, the actor, presenter, and producer is nominated again, this time for the role of Victor in Showmax’s psychological thriller DAM. Now, he’s also starring in Showmax’s highly anticipated Original series Blood Psalms.

We linked up with Siv Ngesi to find out more about his recent SAFTA nomination, carving his path in the industry, and his approach to roles.

Looking at the string of roles you’ve played over the last couple of years, each one is different from the other. Do you feel you’re looking for that unique hook with each role?

To be honest, we live in South Africa and it’s quite difficult to choose roles. A lot of the time you just take what you’re given. I think I’m just fortunate enough to be able to attract the right ones! 

Most importantly, I try to convey a healthy balance of honesty and vulnerability in every character I portray. So the more work I do, the more I’m able to achieve that balance with every character. 

While filming S1 of DAM, did have any idea this was a role that could land you a Best Supporting Actor nomination?

To tell you the honest truth, I don’t work with the thought of getting nominated or winning an award. I just do the work and if I get any recognition for it along the way, it’s greatly appreciated.

All I do is challenge myself in my craft and push as hard as possible. I think if a nomination came with every production that I do, I wouldn’t do it any differently. 

What was it like to work with the director, Alex Yazbek?

Oh man, Alex was great! He allowed me to play and take those big risks. I’m proud to have been part of a project directed by him. He’s just a phenomenal director and I hope I can work with him more.

What kind of preparation work went into finding how your character moves in the world?

We’ve all watched films with bad guys. We all know what happens in most of these types of roles. I just try to do the very opposite of most characters I’ve seen who are bad.

When people see Victor, they are able to see a new approach to playing a bad guy. I believe no one is born bad – they just learn to be bad depending on their different circumstances.

Can you tell us about moments that stood out for you while filming DAM?

For me, I think the whole process was a highlight. We shot the series in the Eastern Cape so being there and experiencing it was awesome, as I have a lot of family there. I was cycling every day, I enjoyed being on set with my co-stars and just experiencing the Eastern Cape as a whole.

Do you think series like DAM mark an exciting time for South African storytelling?

I love where South African storytelling is heading. We’re no longer just getting apartheid stories. We’re now pushing the envelope and receiving great universal stories. It’s amazing to watch and be a part of such a shift.

What was it like starring in Knuckle City and Blood Psalms, directed by Jahmil XT Qubeka?

Working with Jahmil has been so great that he even became a close friend. I trust him as a director, and he also trusts me. 

I think every actor who works with him goes beyond the call of duty. We all make sure we give Jahmil the best we can. I remember when I was with him at the Toronto International Film Festival premiering Knuckle City, people there treated him like he was the future of filmmaking. He’s doing some amazing things and I can’t wait for the whole world to see his work. I think we’re gonna lose him to the world.

You have a lot of things coming up. From The Woman King to Blood Psalms, to mention a few. Do you take breaks in between roles?

I’m always trying to build on myself. I do what I love like pole dancing and boxing, and I also try to escape as much as possible. When I’m focused on a role, I’m in it deeply and head-first. But after it all, I relax and I do as little as possible.

Let’s talk about Sivanna. People show love on social media every time you post about Sivanna. How has your journey of drag been since you put it out on socials?

One thing about me is that I will always do what I want. As long as something is truthful to me, I will always do it. I’ve always wanted to do drag and I’m very excited to see the growth. I’ve learned so much throughout the journey and it has stretched me. I think more than anything, I’ve been able to find power in vulnerability. And I look forward to doing more with Sivanna.

What’s next for you?

I just want to be known as a talented artist and to create as much incredible work as possible. To be able to make the industry a better place and tell beautiful stories.

I’ll continue to make people uncomfortable and create great content. That’s what I want to do.

All episodes of DAM S1 and S2 are ready to binge on Showmax.