Sometimes their fans don't even know their real names. Every time they see them in a new role, they still say 'oh here's Karabo', even when she's playing Harriet on another show. Some roles are just unforgettable and actors and actresses just can't seem to really shake-off some of the characters they have played, even years later.
We look at some of the most unforgettable characters on SA television.
KARABO MOROKA - GENERATIONS
It has been over 20 years since Connie Ferguson starred on SABC 1 soapie Generations, now known as Generations: The Legacy. She was part of the original cast of the long-standing soapie. Although she left the show years ago, she still is Karabo Moroka in the eyes and memories of many. She has gone on to play other roles. She's currently the head of a crime family, Harriet Khoza, on The Queen but to some, she will always be a Moroka.
BRA KOP - RHYTHM CITY
With a career that spans over 30 years, Setlhabi Taunyane has one character that has stuck over the years - Bra Kop. While he's still playing the role, some seem to have forgotten all his other roles and with Rhythm City coming to an end soon, it will take time to see him as anyone but Bra Kop.
NTSIKI LUKHELE - GENERATIONS
She was probably on of the most feared women on Mzanis TV. Her role, Ntsiki Lukhele on the soapie was vindictive and pure evil. She was definitely not one to mess with. She came back to the screens as Deborah on Lockdown after more than 10 years out of the spotlight and yet she was still referred to as Ntsiki by die hard fans.
GEORGIE 'PAPA G' ZAMDELA - ISIDINGO
Not so long ago, he told DRUM that the only people who know his real name are likely to be those who knew him before he was on the SABC 3 soapie Isidingo: The Need. Papa G's real name is Darlington Michaels and yet he will always be the dangerous tavern owner known for his over-the top dress sense and jewellery. He still remains one of the memorable Isidingo actors, even though the show has long come to an end. And what makes it even more confusing for fans is Darlington dresses exactly as Papa G.
DAVID GENARO-RHYTHM CITY
While Jamie Bartlett left the e.tv production in 2019, after 12 years of being a villain that was loved and hated by viewers, no one has forgotten him. He's previously admitted that he is probably not going to be able to convince South Africans to call him by his real name, which they probably don't even. Everywhere he goes, he remains David Genaro.
THANDAZO BUTHELEZI - MUVHANGO
She goes by Lindiwe now on The River. Although she plays a lead role on the One Magic telenovela, Sindi Dlathu will loved for role that she played for 20 years on Muvhango. She started as a school girl in 1997 when it was just a drama series that played once a week. When she left in 2018, she was a businesswoman who had built an empire.
