Skeem Saam actress Elizabeth Serunye (Jacobeth) speaks out after winning Safta

Skeem Saam actress Elizabeth Serunye (Jacobeth) speaks out after winning Safta! Elizabeth Serunye, best known for her role on Rhythm City, has finally received her first South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) for her character in Skeem Saam after being nominated five times.

Serunye’s recent win is an emotional achievement, marking a major milestone in her long and dedicated career.

Elizabeth Serunye

A Heartfelt Surprise After an Emotional Weekend

Serunye shares with Sowetan that she learned about her award on Sunday, October 27, as she had turned off her phone during the weekend. The actress was attending a funeral for her spiritual father, so she wasn’t expecting any calls or updates on her SAFTA nomination.

“You can imagine the mixed emotions I was in,” she says. “Just a day ago, I was burying my spiritual father, and the following day, I was told I won a Safta.”

Skeem Saam actress Elizabeth Serunye

Despite a somber weekend, the news provided Serunye with a powerful reminder of her achievements and her journey. Receiving the award after such a difficult time was deeply meaningful and a significant moment of validation for her commitment to her craft.

A Hard-Earned Victory After Years of Recognition

Elizabeth Serunye’s journey to this SAFTA has been a long one, with five nominations in the past and this being her sixth in three years.

Serunye admits she had been satisfied with merely being nominated as it already felt like recognition for her talent and hard work. Winning, however, was a surprise she hadn’t expected.

Elizabeth Serunye

The beloved actress explained that the nomination itself was an honor, saying, “I was happy with just a nomination because it meant that my work was seen and recognized.” With her sixth nomination resulting in a win, Serunye feels a new level of appreciation for the efforts she’s put into her performances over the years.

LaConco and Thembinkosi Mthembu Also Honored at SAFTAs

This year’s SAFTAs recognized talent across multiple genres, including reality TV and drama. Reality TV star and presenter Nonkanyiso “LaConco” Conco took home a SAFTA for Best Television Presenter. LaConco, who is the face of Mzansi Magic’s Forever Thina, expressed that she was overwhelmed with gratitude after her win.

Reflecting on the win, LaConco told Sunday World, “I’m still numb, full of gratitude for the love I’ve received and never ever imagined being on TV and winning a Safta.” LaConco’s success is testament to her appeal and relatability with audiences, solidifying her place as a prominent figure in South African television.

Actor Thembinkosi Mthembu, known for his roles in The River and Shaka iLembe, was another star who shone at this year’s SAFTAs. Mthembu took home the Best Actor Award for his role as Dingiswayo in Shaka iLembe. With multiple nominations under his belt, including Best Supporting Actor in The River, Best Actor in Outlaws, and Adulting, Mthembu’s dedication and versatility have clearly resonated with audiences and critics alike.

Mthembu’s Rising Star and Multiple Nominations

Mthembu’s recent win highlights his remarkable versatility. His character, Dingiswayo in Shaka iLembe, has become iconic, and Mthembu’s portrayal has received widespread praise. With nominations across several shows and genres, he has quickly established himself as one of the industry’s most talented young actors. The award has also opened up new opportunities for him, as he is currently filming the second seasons of Adulting, Outlaws, and Shaka iLembe.

Celebrating a Milestone Moment in South African Entertainment

The SAFTAs have long served as a platform to celebrate excellence in South African film and television, recognizing talents across a range of roles, from seasoned actors to emerging stars. This year’s winners, including Elizabeth Serunye, LaConco, and Thembinkosi Mthembu, underscore the strength and diversity of talent in the industry.

Serunye’s win, in particular, is a testament to the power of resilience and passion. Despite numerous nominations and a challenging year, her SAFTA win validates her perseverance and solidifies her status as one of South Africa’s most beloved and talented actresses.

In an industry where competition is fierce and success often comes after years of dedication, this recognition serves as both an inspiration and a reminder of the contributions made by actors and entertainers to South African culture. The SAFTAs continue to honor these achievements, providing a platform for actors like Serunye, LaConco, and Mthembu to shine and for audiences to celebrate their favorite talents.

Looking Forward: What’s Next for These Talented Stars?

As the industry looks ahead, stars like Serunye, LaConco, and Mthembu will continue to entertain audiences across various media. Elizabeth Serunye’s win opens up new opportunities, with fans eagerly awaiting her next projects in Skeem Saam and beyond. LaConco, too, has expressed a renewed sense of motivation after her SAFTA win and is expected to continue thriving as a television presenter.

With actors like Thembinkosi Mthembu paving the way, South African entertainment is clearly on an upward trajectory, and these SAFTA wins underscore the importance of dedication, passion, and resilience in achieving success in the entertainment industry.

The post Skeem Saam actress Elizabeth Serunye (Jacobeth) speaks out after winning Safta appeared first on News365.co.za.

  • 19