South African actress Nelisiwe Sibiya has reached a new milestone in her career with her first-ever villain role in the popular Mzansi Magic drama iThonga. Known for her versatility, Nelisiwe shared her excitement and the challenges of playing a character unlike any she has portrayed before.
iThonga has gained attention for its compelling storylines and layered characters, and Nelisiwe’s new role adds an exciting twist. Unlike her previous roles, which often leaned toward relatable or sympathetic characters, she now steps into a darker, more complex role.
In an interview posted on her Instagram, Nelisiwe admitted that playing a villain was both thrilling and daunting. “It’s a new challenge,” she said. “I had to really understand my character’s motivations to make sure she wasn’t just evil for no reason.” She explained that a good villain requires depth—understanding their backstory, emotions, and what drives them.
Fans have followed Nelisiwe’s journey from her early roles to becoming one of South Africa’s rising stars. Taking on a villainous character demonstrates her growth and willingness to explore new territory. Early reactions suggest she has delivered a standout performance.
She also spoke about how different this role is from her real-life personality. “People see me as easy-going and positive, so it’s fun to explore something completely different,” she said. She believes this role helps her grow as an actress and showcase her range.
iThonga has become a fan favorite for its authentic storytelling and cultural depth, tackling social issues while keeping viewers engaged. Nelisiwe’s character brings fresh tension and drama to the series.
Behind the scenes, Nelisiwe credited the production team and cast for their support, saying their encouragement helped her bring the character to life convincingly.
Looking ahead, she hopes this role leads to more diverse opportunities in film and TV. Whether playing a hero or a villain, she aims to keep challenging herself.
For fans of iThonga and South African drama, Nelisiwe’s villain role promises exciting new twists. It’s clear she’s ready to prove that sometimes, playing the “bad guy” can be a great career move.
