As the curtain prepares to fall on Adulting Season 3 this Saturday, April 19, what better way to celebrate the journey than with a deep dive into the world of acting with Nhlanhla Kunene’s Showmax Masterclass?
Ahead of the highly anticipated Adulting finale, Kunene invites aspiring actors to explore the emotional layers of character work, focusing on portraying men with authenticity, vulnerability, and depth. With his rich experience and expertise, Nhlanhla offers a unique perspective on the art of acting, sharing invaluable insights that transcend performance into personal growth and understanding.
Last year, Nhlanhla earned a South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) nomination for his role as Eric in Adulting, a show that has set a new record for the highest number of views within the first 10 days of release since the platform’s relaunch. The role has become a career-defining moment for Nhlanhla, but his portfolio also includes standout performances in The River, Lavish, and Queendom.
Drawing from his roots in Ladysmith and Ivory Park, Nhlanhla uses his own experiences to peel back the emotional layers often hidden beneath the surface of men’s lives. “Performance isn’t just about acting—it’s healing,” he says. “Through acting, we reflect people’s realities and give voice to those whose stories are often overlooked. To truly embody a character, you have to understand their background, their motivations, and their emotions. You have to live the moment and bring their truth to life.”
In his Masterclass, Nhlanhla delves into the significance of multidimensional characters and the powerful responsibility actors have in portraying roles that reflect real-world struggles—fatherhood, financial hardship, and emotional suppression. He advocates for breaking stereotypes, particularly those surrounding black men, by showcasing not only their actions but the pain, vulnerability, and societal pressures that shape them.
One of the standout aspects of Nhlanhla’s approach is his reflection on his portrayal of Eric in Adulting. The character, defined by his experiences with poverty, fatherhood, and hustle culture, allowed Nhlanhla to tap into his own childhood memories and the dynamics of his community. Through Eric, he brings to light the complex emotions often hidden behind a tough exterior.
Nhlanhla shares how figures like Sipho, a mentor from his neighborhood, influenced his approach to the role. “We thought Sipho had it all figured out, but he was vulnerable too,” he recalls. “It’s a powerful reminder that everyone carries their own burdens. As actors, our job is to reveal those hidden stories and bring them to the forefront.”
Ultimately, Nhlanhla hopes that his work in front of the camera resonates with audiences on a deeper level. “I want my performances to help others feel seen, understood, and healed,” he says. “Acting isn’t about fame—it’s about reflecting truth and inspiring empathy.”
Join Nhlanhla Kunene in this transformative Masterclass and gain a deeper understanding of what it means to truly embody a character.
Main Image: Supplied
The post Nhlanhla Kunene Breaks Down Vulnerability in Acting Masterclass appeared first on EntertainmentSA News South Africa.
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