With former Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Brighton Mhlongo having recently made his acting debut, here's a look at five former South African footballers who have dabbled in the film and television industry.
The story
It is not very uncommon for footballers to trade the sport for a career in film, as former Premier League stars Vinnie Jones and Eric Cantona have gone on to feature in several movies since stepping away from soccer. Furthermore, high-profile names like Neymar and David Beckham have also made memorable cameo appearances in blockbuster movies whilst being active footballers. The Brazilian superstar appeared in the move 'xXx: Return of Xander Cage' alongside Hollywood star Vin Diesel.
Brighton Mhlongo
Mhlongo, meanwhile, has become the latest former star to make his film debut following his supporting role in the Mzansi Magic telenovela 'Champions'. The show premiered earlier this month and follows the life of Sne Modise (played by Jo-Anne Reyneke) as navigates through the challenges in her life. Mhlongo takes on the character of a footballer who has hung up his boots and an owner of a soccer club. The program also features a cameo appearance by another former Pirates star Phumudzo Manenzhe.
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Junior Khanye
The outspoken ex-player appeared in the Mzansi Magic production 'Vula Vala' in 2020. In 2022 he scored a role in the eTV drama-series Black Door. Khanye, who now works as a controversial pundit has also tried his hand in music, as he has an amapiano track called 'Obrigado' featuring Chef Mbali, Muzeethembuzi, SyperbeaTz, and SticksBeats).
Doctor Khumalo
The Kaizer Chiefs legend showed his acting skills in the movie 'Themba' back in 2010. In the film, which is said to be inspired by a German novel, Khumalo plays himself on the show - an U21 coach of a local soccer team. More recently, the Bafana Bafana legend starred in a minor role on the 2023 drama 'The Queenstown Kings'. Last year, his documentary called '16V: The Untold Story Of Doctor' aired on DStv.
Henry Cele
The lead actor of the famous Shaka Zulu movie Henry Cele was reportedly a professional footballer before he turned to acting. Various reports suggest that in the 1960s, he was a goalkeeper for Aces United and Zulu Royals, who are now known as AmaZulu FC. He gained popularity for his acting roles instead, as many still view him as the original Shaka. Cele passed away in 2007 in Durban.
Dumisani Masilela
The former Rhythm City star was tragically killed in 2017 during an attempted hijacking. The actor is said to have been a footballer before turning to acting, as his soccer career was curtailed by a career-ending car accident in the late 2010s, according to Enca. Masilela represented SuperSport and Highlands Park during his playing days.
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