Linda Nxumalo is no stranger to South Africa’s television lovers. Through his bright smile and undeniable talent, the 26-year-old actor, who plays the role of Sokalezwe on eTV’s House of Zwide, has very quickly won the hearts of many and has become a fan favourite. Growing up in KwaZulu Natal as part of a big family, Nxumalo was raised to become a disciplined individual who loves and respects people. “I grew up in a pretty strict and loving family. We were a big family too, with my aunts and uncles all present,” he shared. 

Acting – a passion from years back

Reflecting on his journey of acting, Nxumalo shared how his passion for the world of make-believe stems back to his childhood years when he partook in church plays. “Each time there was a play, I would excel. Even if I were not assigned a leading role, I would draw everyone’s attention,” he shared. In high school, his love affair with acting grew and blossomed after he was fortunate enough to encounter a tangible representation of his aspirations. “My class teacher was an actor in Intersexions and he had studied at Durban University of Technology (DUT). I used to talk to him and he would share his experiences. All of those things contributed to me falling deeper in love with acting. That’s when I knew I wanted to do it as a career.”

Although his teacher inspired him and continues to draw inspiration from industry colleagues who carry experience and wisdom, the actor is also very much inspired by those nearest and dearest to him, especially his uncles. “As much as they’re not part of the acting world and it’s not something they’d pursue, I am inspired by how they behave, their life experiences and the funny things they do when we’re around each other. Each time I get a character brief, I always try to think of someone from home who would fit it because as much as we’re one big family, there are different characters,” he said.

Nxumalo holds an acting qualification from DUT. After graduating, he came to Johannesburg in pursuit of greener pastures and to pursue his dream. While trying to enter the acting industry, he worked a retail job and had to make ends meet on very tight finances. 

House of Zwide 

Currently acting on eTV’s popular soapie House of Zwide, Nxumalo states that there are indeed many similarities between himself and his character of Sokalezwe. “I rented a room in Tembisa when I was working in retail. Soka is a young man from Tembisa too. Like him, I also experienced many challenges when I first came to Johannesburg, including not having a place to stay,” he shared. The budding actor also expressed his gratitude for the cast of House of Zwide as he expressed how they all treat each other like family. More than anything, he also does not take for granted the opportunity to learn from some of the industry’s greatest actors. Before House of Zwide, he had a cameo role on Isithembiso which prepared him for all that his acting career currently requires of him. 

Style – A family thing 

When he is not on set, the actor can be found in the gym, reading a book or styling a good outfit. As a lover of clothing, he defines his sense of style as very casual and laid back. How he chooses to dress has been influenced by his grandfather who always wanted everyone to be dressed in a manner that is neat and clean. His uncles were also into trendy and expensive clothes and shoes. “Growing up in the township, we always viewed how you dress as how you express yourself,” he added. As he continues to grow in the world of acting and as an individual, Nkanyiso hopes to produce and direct his television shows soon. He also looks forward to continued growth that is grounded in his values.