WHEN we see actors on TV, most of us believe they are as rich and famous.
But presenter and actor in The Queen Mlamli Mangcala (42) says life as a famous TV personality is not all it’s cracked up to be.
That’s why he has a plan B.
The actor, who is a qualified radiographer, opened a diagnostic radiography surgery in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, to earn a bit of extra money.
“At the moment, South Africa’s arts field is a dangerous industry to get involved in because you might get a gig today, but not have one for 10 years,” he said.
“People see you on TV and think fame and money are the same thing.
“But those are two different things in South Africa.
“I might not get a role tomorrow, but what keeps me going is the fact that I know I have something to fall back on,”
“I’m not immune to poverty,” said the actor.
Mlamli grew up in Ashton, Western Cape.
He attended Matthew Goniwe High School in Khayelitsha while his family lived in Kraaifontein. He now lives in Brackenfell.
Mlamli told the SunTeam he believed in investing in people. “I give motivational speeches at schools without expecting to be paid,” he said.
Mlamli attributes his success in the field to his cousin Amanda Quwe, who is a veteran in the industry.
