Sello Maake KaNcube: A South African Acting Legend

Sello Maake KaNcube is a renowned South African actor, director, and playwright who has been active in the entertainment industry for over three decades. He has appeared in numerous stage productions, films, and television shows, both locally and internationally. With his commanding presence and powerful performances, KaNcube has become a beloved icon in the world of performing arts.

Born on March 12, 1960, in Pretoria, South Africa, KaNcube began his acting career in the early 1980s. He made his breakthrough in the stage production of “Woza Albert!” and went on to star in several other critically acclaimed plays. In 1992, he made his film debut in “The Power of One,” which was followed by roles in “Cry, the Beloved Country” and “Red Dust.” He has also appeared in international productions such as “The Black Panther” and “The Lion King.”

KaNcube’s contributions to the South African entertainment industry have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious Order of Ikhamanga in Silver, which he received in 2019. He has also been a vocal advocate for social justice and equality, using his platform to raise awareness about important issues affecting his country and the world.

Sello Maake KaNcube
Full Name: Sello Maake KaNcube
Born:  March 12, 1960
Nationality: South African
Education: University of the Witwatersrand
Occupation: Actor, Director
Years active: 1981-Present
Spouse: Pearl Maake KaNcube

Early Life and Education

Birth and Family Background

Sello Maake KaNcube was born on March 12, 1960, in Orlando East, Soweto, South Africa. He was born to a family that was actively involved in the anti-apartheid movement. His mother was a domestic worker, and his father was a political activist who was imprisoned on Robben Island for seven years.

Growing up in a politically charged environment, Sello was exposed to the realities of apartheid from an early age. His parents’ involvement in the struggle for freedom had a significant impact on his upbringing and shaped his worldview.

Educational Pursuits

Despite the challenges of growing up in apartheid South Africa, Sello Maake KaNcube was determined to pursue his education. He attended Morris Isaacson High School, where he was actively involved in drama and theatre.

After completing his high school education, Sello went on to study at the University of the Witwatersrand, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dramatic Art. He later furthered his studies at the University of California, Los Angeles, where he obtained a Master of Fine Arts degree in Acting.

Sello’s educational pursuits played a significant role in shaping his career as an actor. His passion for theatre and the arts was evident from a young age, and his dedication to his craft has made him one of the most respected actors in South Africa and beyond.

Career Highlights

Theatre Contributions

Sello Maake KaNcube is a highly accomplished actor with extensive experience in theatre. He has contributed to numerous productions and has been praised for his exceptional performances. Some of his notable theatre contributions include:

  • Played the role of Othello in William Shakespeare’s play “Othello”
  • Portrayed the character of Brutus in “Julius Caesar”
  • Played the role of the lead character in the play “The Lion and The Lamb”
  • Starred in the musical production of “King Kong”

Television and Film Roles

Sello Maake KaNcube is a highly respected actor in the television and film industry. He has appeared in various productions and has been praised for his exceptional acting skills. Some of his notable television and film roles include:

  • Played the character of Archie Moroka in the television series “Generations”
  • Portrayed the character of Lucas Nyathi in the television series “The River”
  • Starred in the film “The Suit”, based on the short story by Can Themba
  • Played the role of Nelson Mandela in the film “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom”

Awards and Recognition

Sello Maake KaNcube has received numerous awards and recognition for his outstanding contributions to the arts. Some of his notable awards include:

  • Received the Naledi Theatre Award for Best Actor in a Play for his role in “The Lion and The Lamb”
  • Received the SAFTA Award for Best Actor in a TV Soap for his role in “Scandal!”
  • Received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Mbokodo Awards
  • Received the National Order of Ikhamanga in Silver for his contribution to the arts and culture in South Africa.