From humble beginnings to becoming a household name, recently caught up with Muzi Mthabela, the seasoned actor, editor, speaker, and former model who has made a name for himself over the years. Known for his roles in numerous popular TV shows, Muzi opened up about his journey in the entertainment business and the core values that have shaped—and continue to shape—his career and personal life.
NDZIBA: You've built quite a name for yourself in the entertainment industry and worked on numerous projects. How would you describe your journey so far?
MUZI: My journey in the entertainment industry has been amazing,despite not having traditional acting training. My background in video editing gave me valuable insights into effective storytelling techniques, which I've been able to apply throughout my acting career.
Breaking into this industry is difficult, and even after getting that initial opportunity, connecting with audiences is essential. I believe charisma is truly a gift, and I'm thankful that doors have opened for me. I've been fortunate to be warmly welcomed by industry professionals and have successfully built a reputation through the various projects I've worked on over the years.
NDZIBA: You've been very open about your sobriety and Christian faith. How is that journey going, and what led you down this path?
MUZI: This year I celebrate a major milestone – 10 years of sobriety! It wasn't easy getting here, after so many attempts trying to quit before. My Christian faith was the main reason I stopped drinking—I wanted to grow spiritually, and alcohol just didn't fit that path anymore. I needed to make a change to honor God, my wife, and my children. Being a better man for my family and in society became my priority. Since I give a lot of motivational talks, I also felt responsible to practice what I preach and set a good example.
Looking back, I have zero regrets about this decision. It's truly transformed my life for the better.
NDZIBA: Talking about Christian faith! The entertainment industry often operates on secular, self-centered, or materialistic values. As a Christian professional, how do you navigate this environment while staying true to your faith and values?
MUZI: My faith has always been the cornerstone of my life. My identity in Christ shapes who I am at my core, guiding my decisions and actions. I'm careful to avoid paths that conflict with my beliefs and the purpose God has set for me. This spiritual foundation helps me navigate life's challenges while staying true to my faith.
NDZIBA: For someone hoping to follow a career path similar to yours, what insights have you gained about the industry that you'd share as advice?
MUZI: Figure out if you're after fame or truly passionate about your craft—passion typically drives longevity while fame comes and goes. For anyone aspiring to work in entertainment - whether as an actor, musician, or other creative - understanding the business aspects is crucial for building a sustainable career. Continually perfect your craft through ongoing learning, and prepare yourself for the inevitable dry spells when work opportunities may be scarce.
Most importantly, maintain strong mental health. This industry constantly evolves - you might be the favorite today and overlooked tomorrow when a new face appears. Being mentally prepared for these shifts will help you navigate the unpredictable nature of entertainment
NDZIBA: What projects are you currently working on, and what can we look forward to seeing from you in the future?
MUZI: Im currently shooting a new telenovela that will replace "Smoke and Mirrors". I'm really excited about this project! Keep an eye out for it. As for other future projects, I can't reveal too much right now, but I can tell you there are some exciting things coming down the pipeline.