“Lerato Has Been One of the Greatest Gifts I’ve Received,” Buhle Moletsane Appreciates Her Emzini Character
“Lerato Has Been One of the Greatest Gifts I’ve Received,” Buhle Moletsane Appreciates Her Emzini Character. It has been a couple of months since Emzini fans got introduced to Lerato. She is a go-getter, who creates opportunities for herself. Lerato is also madly in love with her boyfriend, and would do anything to keep their relationship going. The character is played by Buhle Moletsane, who has done a great job so far.
“It’s giving emotional complications. And we’re only getting started. #Emzini #eTV
APPRECIATION POST: Playing Lerato has been such a beautiful journey. I walked into this character without an extensive backstory, family dynamics or much of what traditionally helps you build a character. I was learning her as I went along, making choices and trusting my instincts.
But one thing was clear from the brief: this girl was obsessed with this man. She wanted to marry him, secure her position in his life and was willing to overlook his indiscretions because, ultimately, she wanted the ring. And I understood that assignment!
I never felt the need to make her more reasonable, self-aware or independent than the brief required. I played the woman whose position was simply, “That’s my man, my man, my man!” And that’s exactly what I wanted the audience to see. I’m so glad I stuck to my guns and that it was received exactly as intended.
I’ve also learnt to appreciate that not having access to a character’s entire backstory doesn’t mean she doesn’t have one. Some discoveries happen through behaviour, relationships and the unfolding story. Of course, research and asking questions are important, but I never wanted to overanalyse Lerato to the point of losing sight of the character I was there to portray. Sometimes, you have to trust the writing, commit to your choices and perform. You have a character to play, not one to constantly explain or defend.
A special thank you to my scene partner for making this journey such a joy. Sharing this part of the story with him has been a gift.
Lerato has honestly been one of the greatest gifts I’ve received. I’m grateful for the opportunity to bring her to life. And perhaps one of the most rewarding things as an actor is seeing your interpretation translate on screen and knowing the audience understood exactly what you intended.
Here’s to the journey of Lerato and everything still to come. NOT leaving the show anytime soon, khululeka. 💋,” Buhle said.
