The South African series iThonga has viewers across Mzansi hooked. It tells a powerful story about love, family, and the strong bond between twin brothers Banele and Sanele. The show features a talented cast , including the talented Wanda Mdladla, who plays Lungelo Dladla.
By Tshegofatso Tube
Wanda Mdladla, widely recognised for his presence on TikTok, has broken into the acting industry.Wanda is an ambitious, lighthearted actor who has dreamed big since childhood.His acting career began when he was discovered by Keneilwe Matidze. “She’s like the mother of my career,” he emphasises. Keneilwe encouraged him to audition for a role. Although he didn’t land the part he initially tried out for, he was offered another role, which eventually led to his breakthrough on iThonga. His journey into acting highlights the importance of faith and persistence
Wanda plays Lungelo Dladla in Ithonga, a character who is often misunderstood. While Lungelo is perceived as a troubled teen, Wanda believes his character is simply under immense pressure. “He wasn’t really asked what he wants to do with his life, and he acts out because of it,” Wanda explains. Lungelo’s complex journey unfolds throughout the series.
Stepping into a show with such an intense storyline was both exciting and intimidating for Wanda. Despite the nerves, he insists that he doesn’t shy away from a challenge. Working alongside talented actors like Bonko Khoza was daunting at first, but he received a great deal of guidance. A supportive and comfortable set helped him ease into the role. “It’s worked out really well,” Wanda says.
Like many actors, Wanda has faced challenges in his craft. One particularly tough moment came during a scene that required him to access deep emotions. “It seems easy, but it isn’t,” he admits. Learning to express genuine emotion on command is something he continues to work on. “That involves tapping into emotions you didn’t know you needed or even had,” he adds.
Wanda describes working with the iThonga cast as a rewarding experience. “It feels like working with a bunch of mentors,” he says. Observing his fellow actors in their element has been both inspiring and educational. He’s also formed strong friendships on set with cast members such as Unathi Mkhize and Thando Ngema.
When asked about a funny moment on set, Wanda recalled a crying scene that became unexpectedly stressful. As the final scene of the day, he had to summon real tears,but they weren’t coming. “In between takes, I was just drinking litres of water in the hopes that the tears would come and they did,” he laughs.
Wanda shares some similarities with his character, such as being the youngest in his family. To prepare for the role, he kept a notebook in which he dissected Lungelo’s mind and his relationships with others. In the series, Lungelo craves to be seen and this is something that Wanda personally relates to. However, he notes that he turned to social media and it worked out for him. In the series, Lungelo just wants to be recognised for who he truly is, not as the “golden ticket” of the family.
Wanda hopes viewers take away the message that good intentions don’t always lead to good outcomes. His character, Lungelo, often means well but struggles with the results. “He tries his best to do good, but it just doesn’t work out the way he wants it to,” he says.
For aspiring actors, Wanda’s advice is to be certain about pursuing the craft. There are highs and lows that are beyond your control, so it’s important to do it out of love. He also highlights the importance of kindness in the industry, encouraging others to be genuine and respectful, because word travels fast.
Lungelo’s journey is one you won’t want to miss. Catch Wanda Mdladla in iThonga on Mzansi Magic, DStv channel 161, weekdays at 20:30.