Internet sensations that became actors

South Africans are a funny breed. Perhaps this is true of people all over the world but speaking from experience; nobody calls for new talent more than South Africans only to turn around pull said talent down once it is given to them. 

Although the expansion of South Africa’s entertainment industry is slow, it is happening and one of the ways the internet has made it easier for this to happen is to a) give aspiring entertainers a chance to show their talent and build an audience and b) it makes it easier for casting agents, directors, producers and film makers to discover new talent. 

The following stars are testament to that: 

Moshe Ndiki 

Moshe made his way into the hearts of South Africans through his hilarious and sometimes outrageous videos that ended up scoring him a number of major jobs. The latest being his incredibly popular role on Mzansi Magic’s ‘The Queen’.

What many do not know however is that Ndiki is a qualified performer and he did what he had to do to get his name out there using social media as a tool. And now, here we are, stanning for the next big thing in SA entertainment. 

Farieda Metsileng aka ‘Pharoah Fi’ 

Farieda is arguably South Africa’s favourite internet sensation. She has since starred in a number of comedy and drama series and she hosts a few shows on MTV Base and MTV Africa. 

She was convinced to showcase her talent online by a former boss of hers who was very supportive of her career. Another person who has been supportive of her career is Moshe Ndiki, who she says taught her everything she knows about social media. 

Even though she’s working in mainstream media, she plans to return to her social media route.“I just want to create a one-man show, and have all the characters to interact…not sure how that’s gonna happen, might go insane after that but we’ll see where it goes,” she said. 

Lasizwe Dambuza

Lasizwe blew up at the height of the Doom Pastor drama and has grown into one of SA’s most controversial social media sensations. This is due to the fact that he has been caught in a few lies and has repeatedly been accused of stealing tweets and other social media content. 

Despite this, he has managed to secure a job at Tbo Touch’s Touch HD online radio station and has bagged a campaign with Fanta, among other deals. 

Who’s got next? 

Okay Wasabi 

The parody comedian, who’s real name is George Mnguni, recently revealed that he has been tapped to direct the fourth season of MTV’s comedy prank show, ‘You Got Got’. 

He has also since ventured into music and has continued creating content. 

Ta Fire 

The actor and comedian, whose real name is Siyabulela Deli, was also featured on ‘Morning Live’ for his talents

Siviwe Lutseke

Nelisiwe Mwase

Fash Ngobese

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Main image credit: nstagram.com/moshendiki/