Tina Jaxa (Isikizi, Vula Vala) is known for her ability to bring characters to life with authenticity and nuance. With a career spanning over two decades, Tina has seamlessly transitioned between stage, film, and television, leaving an indelible mark on every project she touches. Whether playing tough-as-nails characters or diving into deeply emotional roles, Jaxa’s performances are always captivating. This year, Jaxa returns to the small screen in the African fantasy series Mpondoland.
The new series follows Mkhondwana (played by Thembekile Komani), a reluctant leader with a natural talent for cultivating lush marijuana fields. When a powerful outsider threatens to seize the riches of their land, Mkhondwana is forced to rise and lead his village of KwaKhonjwayo in the fight against the threat.
In this new role, Jaxa plays Pele-pele, a villainous businesswoman in the pharmaceutical industry who has her sights set on the KwaKhonjwayo land for profit.
With Mpondoland set to air on Sunday 7 December at 20:00 on Mzansi Magic, Jaxa discusses her role and shares her experience working on the series.
Mzansi Magic (MM): What sets Mpondoland apart from other projects you've worked on?
Tina Jaxa (TJ): It’s Pele-pele, the character who truly humbled me. Before we started filming, I had never cried this much, both before and after each scene. My team – including the armourers, stunt coordinator, and directors – held my hand through it all, and I’m so grateful. I took this role to heart. My preparation for the character was intense; I threw myself into it completely, and how I prepared is a story for another time.
MM: What did you learn about Amapondo culture?
TJ: I’m part of the uXesibe clan by totem, the younger brother to uMpondo and Mpondomise. Due to family feuds, the brothers went their separate ways to establish their own kingdoms. This resonated deeply with me. I wish I could’ve learned more from the wise elders in my village about how these divisions came to be and the chaos that followed.
MM: What did you appreciate about the locations where Mpondoland was filmed?
TJ: The majestic animals we encountered up close, and the breathtaking beauty of the land were incredible. The landscapes perfectly reflect the story’s essence.
MM: Pele-pele comes across as a stern, bully-like character. Can you tell us more about her?
TJ: Pele-pele is my favorite kind of soldier: determined, brave, and strong. She’s unafraid to fight for what she believes in. While she may seem ordinary at first glance, she’s far from it. Pele-pele grew up with two angels to care for, and the one she fed the most is who she became. She’s a warrior, and her faith in the face of war is something I admire
MM: Is there anything about Pele-pele that you admire, despite her villainous side?
TJ: What I admire most is her unwavering belief in gods and heroes (particularly her grandfather). She manipulates situations to get the desired outcome, which is something I find fascinating. Pele-pele is driven by the need to win, not just for herself but for her grandfather. While she may seem lacking in humanity, we see a different side of her when she’s a mother to her son.
I also admire her ability to balance life and death. She’s learned to navigate both, and her skill in battle is rooted in deep vengeance. She’ll stop at nothing to achieve her goals, even if it means leaving a path of destruction.
MM: What made you appreciate your profession as an actor while working on Mpondoland?
TJ: It’s the way each character was developed and how the story escalates and de-escalates. The chemistry among the cast, the way we all showed up for the production, and the seamless integration of the entire team made me appreciate the work even more. We didn’t just act; we lived and breathed our roles. We were part of something much bigger than ourselves.
MM: Besides acting, what else have you been doing in the film and television industry?
TJ: I’ve been working as a casting director, performance coach, and intimacy coordinator.
MM: How would you describe Mpondoland in three words?
TJ: Brave, unapologetic, and a must-see show.
Watch Mpondoland, premiering on Sunday 7 December at 20:00, only on Mzansi Magic (DStv Channel 161).
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