Zakhele Mabasa-Mokone, Sihle Ndaba and Mangaliso Alutha Mthembu star in a new drama, ‘One Week’. File Picture: Supplied
Renowned actor Zakhele Mabasa-Mokone is currently playing the role of Fana in a new Showmax series, “One Weeks”.
Mabasa-Mokone’s character, Fana, a charismatic high-school dropout from the streets of Soweto who can’t believe his luck when he finds himself dating a successful lawyer, Lihle portrayed by Sihle Ndaba.
In an interview with Zibuyile Dladla, Mabasa-Mokone stated that when it comes to relationships, the dynamics of love and mistakes often intertwine, creating a web of emotions and experiences that resonate with many of us.
For Mabasa-Mokone, the character of Fana in the series "One Weeks" embodies a realistic portrayal of a flawed yet endearing individual, and his interactions with others bring to light valuable lessons about love, patience, and the complexities of human connections.
“Fana is the type of guy that I’ve come across in my life many times. He’s a guy that likes taking chances and isn’t afraid of doing so.
“Although Fana makes many mistakes, he’s also a lovable person because he’s so real and relatable,” he said.
He also shared that one of the most fascinating aspects of Fana is his willingness to take chances, even if it means encountering a multitude of mistakes along the way.
Mabasa-Mokone also talked about the on-screen relationship between Fana and Angie - potrayed by Mangaliso Alutha Mthembu - has captivated viewers, with Mabasa-Mokone expressing admiration for the character of Mangaliso as a ray of sunshine and an intelligent individual.
“I also loved how much of a team player she is. I find that to be quite rare for a person so young. Mangaliso is a true gem and I’m sure we're about to see more of her on our screens,” he assured.
Mabasa-Mokone further acknowledges Lihle's unwavering commitment to choosing Fana, despite societal disparities and external pressures.
“Lihle is more educated and more financially secure than her man, but she constantly chooses to make their relationship work. Her love for Fana shows that no matter what a person may or may not have, at the end of the day, we’re all human and deserve to be loved,” said the actor.
However, Fana's susceptibility to negative influences from friends like Smindlo and Ginger sheds light on the complexities of friendships and their impact on personal growth. Siphiwe Mtshali and Mpho Malatsi also star in the series as Fana’s friends, Smindlo and Ginger.
Mabasa-Mokone emphasises the sobering reality that some friendships can lead individuals astray, prompting the crucial necessity of assessing and potentially abandoning toxic relationships for the sake of personal well-being.
“However, I'm also a person who believes in second chances, so, before you walk away, assess the friendship and see if you can change your friends for the better. But, if that doesn't succeed, then the friendship should end,” he said.
Additionally, Mabasa-Mokone offered advice to women navigating relationships with individuals similar to Fana, Mabasa-Mokone advocates for patience and understanding. He emphasised the crucial role of patience in love and encourages women to guide their partners, particularly in evaluating the influence of their friends.
“Be patient with your man, and try to advise him on the friends he hangs out with, especially if the friends are anything like Fana's boys,” he added.
IOL Lifestyle