Africa Month Spotlight: 5 South African stars shining in Hollywood

South Africa is renowned for producing some of the world’s most talented and skilled individuals, across music, film, fashion, and beyond. From the streets of Soweto to the global red carpets, South Africans have consistently raised the bar, proving time and again that creativity, grit, and passion run deep in our nation’s DNA.

Hollywood, often seen as the pinnacle of global entertainment, hasn’t just taken notice, it’s taken inspiration. From feature films set on our soil to international casts led by South African talent, the world stage is increasingly showcasing the brilliance nurtured back home.

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Over the years, we’ve seen several local stars break through the Hollywood ceiling. These individuals haven’t just succeeded abroad, they’ve embraced their heritage, celebrated their roots, and carried the South African spirit with them. Their journeys are not just personal victories, but national ones, echoing the power and potential of South African talent.

As we celebrate Africa Month this May, it’s important to give flowers to those flying the South African flag with pride and purpose. Africa Month serves as a moment to reflect on the continent’s journey, its triumphs, its trials, and the ongoing rewriting of its future. It reminds us of the strength that comes from unity, identity, and cultural pride.

And as the saying goes on social media: “No DNA, just RSA.” With that spirit in mind, here are five South African stars making a powerful impact in Hollywood:

Kim Engelbrecht

Kim Engelbrecht first caught the public’s attention on South African television, but it wasn't long before her talent drew the eyes of global producers. She gained international recognition with her role in Eye in the Sky, a British thriller that tackled the moral complexities of modern warfare. Her performance was both understated and powerful, earning praise from audiences and critics alike.

Her Hollywood breakthrough came with The Flash, the hit American TV series based on the DC Comics character. Playing the role of Marlize DeVoe, Engelbrecht brought intelligence, depth, and emotional complexity to the screen, holding her own alongside a seasoned cast and capturing the attention of a global fanbase.

Not one to be typecast, Engelbrecht then returned to South African screens in a role that would further cement her international standing. She starred in the BritBox original crime thriller Reyka, portraying a criminal profiler haunted by her traumatic past. Her gripping performance earned her an International Emmy nomination, a significant milestone not only for her career, but also for South African television on the world stage.

Thuso Mbedu

Thuso Mbedu has rapidly emerged as one of South Africa’s brightest exports, captivating international audiences with her powerful performances and undeniable screen presence. As her star continues to rise in Hollywood, Mbedu is fast becoming a symbol of African excellence on the global stage.

She first made waves with her lead role in the critically acclaimed Amazon Prime series The Underground Railroad, directed by Academy Award-winner Barry Jenkins. The series, based on Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, earned widespread praise for its harrowing portrayal of slavery and resistance in America, and Mbedu’s performance was at its heart. Her portrayal of Cora Randall was raw, emotive, and deeply moving, earning her international accolades and positioning her as one to watch in the industry.

Mbedu continued her upward trajectory with a starring role in The Woman King, a historical epic led by Viola Davis. The film, which highlights the all-female Agojie warriors of the Kingdom of Dahomey, further showcased Mbedu’s versatility and commitment to roles that celebrate strength, heritage, and untold stories.

In 2024, she expanded her talents into voice acting, lending her voice to Mufasa: The Lion King film. Her involvement in such a globally recognised franchise not only underlines her growing influence but also reflects the broadening scope of African talent within the mainstream entertainment world.

Thabang Molaba

Thabang Molaba, best known for his role as Karabo ‘KB’ Molapo in Netflix’s Blood & Water, is set to make his Hollywood debut in the upcoming film Now You See Me 3. Scheduled for release on 14 November 2025, the film sees Molaba joining an ensemble cast that includes Hollywood heavyweights such as Woody Harrelson and Morgan Freeman.

Molaba first rose to prominence through his performance in Blood & Water, earning critical acclaim for his portrayal of the charismatic and complex KB. His growing career has also included roles in popular South African productions such as The Queen and Diamond City. This forthcoming Hollywood role represents a significant milestone for the young actor as he steps onto the international stage.

Directed by Ruben Fleischer, known for box office hits like Venom and Zombieland, the third instalment of the heist-thriller franchise is expected to deliver the same blend of action and illusion that made its predecessors global successes.

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Returning cast members Jesse Eisenberg, Isla Fisher, Dave Franco, and Morgan Freeman are joined by new faces including Rosamund Pike, Justice Smith, and Thabang Molaba. Their addition brings renewed energy and diversity to the film, promising a fresh take on the franchise.

Tyla

South African music sensation Tyla is set to make her acting debut in the upcoming third season of the critically acclaimed HBO series Euphoria. The show is currently in production and is expected to premiere in 2026.

While details of Tyla’s role have yet to be fully disclosed, her casting marks a significant moment in her career as she transitions from chart-topping artist to screen actress. The announcement has generated widespread excitement among fans eager to see the Grammy Award-winning star expand her creative repertoire.

It has also been confirmed that some original cast members from previous seasons will not be returning, signalling a shift in the series’ direction and possibly opening the door for new characters and storylines. Tyla’s debut in Euphoria highlights not only her growing global presence but also the continued rise of South African talent in international entertainment.

Dr John Kani

Dr John Kani stands as one of South Africa’s most respected and celebrated actors, playwrights, and activists. With a career spanning decades, he has not only made an indelible mark on the local arts scene but has also gained widespread international recognition through a series of prominent roles in major Hollywood productions.

Kani is best known globally for his portrayal of King T’Chaka in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in Captain America: Civil War and the groundbreaking film Black Panther. His powerful performance added emotional depth and cultural gravitas to the franchise, further cementing his status as a global icon.

In 2019, he brought his distinctive voice to the character of Rafiki in Disney’s live-action remake of The Lion King, introducing a new generation of audiences to his commanding presence and storytelling prowess. Beyond the Marvel Universe and Disney, Kani has also appeared in other international films, including Netflix’s Murder Mystery and its sequel, Murder Mystery 2, showcasing his range and versatility across genres.

A pioneer of South African theatre and a tireless advocate for the arts, John Kani’s contributions go far beyond the screen. His work continues to inspire generations of performers both in South Africa and around the world.