Bongile Mantsai
Bongile Mantsai is a South African actor and theatre practitioner known for his work in film, television, and stage. He gained widespread acclaim for his performances in Inxeba: The Wound, Knuckle City, and the television soap opera Scandal!. He has won multiple awards for his performances and is recognized for his contributions to South African theatre and storytelling.
Early life and education
Mantsai was born in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, and raised in the township of Kayamandi, where he completed his high school education at Kayamandi High School in 1998. He initially faced challenges in pursuing higher education due to a language barrier, as Stellenbosch University predominantly offered courses in Afrikaans. Undeterred, he approached theatre directors to express his passion for acting, leading to an opportunity to join a physical theatre programme that included language and movement classes. This experience enabled him to participate in university productions and laid the foundation for his acting career.Career
Mantsai began his artistic career in theatre, where he became a prominent performer and musical director. He worked with the Baxter Theatre Centre and was appointed artistic director of the Zabalaza Theatre Festival. Notable stage roles include Mies Julie, Amaza, Marat/Sade, Karoo Moose, and Woyzeck.He transitioned into film and television, earning critical acclaim for his role as Vija in Inxeba: The Wound, a film that received international recognition. His leading role in Knuckle City further cemented his reputation, earning him Best Actor at the 2019 Durban International Film Festival and the 2020 SAFTA awards.
He is also well known for his role as Mthunzi Mayiza in the television drama Scandal!, where his performance as a manipulative and complex antagonist drew critical praise.
Filmography
Film
Inxeba: The Wound – as VijaKnuckle City – as Dudu NyakamaNumber Number Jozi Gold – as Jozi GoldThe Republic – supporting roleTelevision
Scandal! – as Mthunzi MayizaNkululeko – as PonchoGqeberha: The Empire – as Hlumelo MxengeBlood Psalms – as HlenguTheatre
Mies Julie – lead roleWoyzeckMarat/SadeKaroo Moose – musical directorItyala la Mawele – musical director- ''Elke Duim 'n Koning''