AWARD-winning actor Mduduzi Mabaso believes acting has taken a lot from him spiritually.
Mduduzi, many people know him as Suffocate, the gangster on e.tv's soapie Rhythm City, believes he has a calling, and a certain audience to talk to.
The 48-year-old reflected on his acting career and said it has humbled him as a person as well, knowing that there are certain people he's dealing with.
"I think it wasn't easy. It took a lot from me spiritually because, as an actor, you need to remember that you're not your own person, you're the person of the people, and people think they own you.
"Sometimes, you just need to show respect because if they weren't watching your work, would they know you, would you be paid? We wouldn't do that job, if there were no people who'll watch that kind of craft," Mduduzi said.
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The Joburg-based actor started acting in the 1990s when he appeared in a theatre production, Divide and Rule. He has also featured on TV shows including Zone 14, Yizo Yizo 2, A Place Called Home, Soul City, Justice For All 4, Heartlines: Grace and Chicken Biznis.
"I take this as a calling. I have a certain audience I need to talk to. At a certain time, it's going to move me to another position."
Mduduzi reckons you need to have a thick skin, if you're in the industry and finding yourself trending on social media. He believes it's good publicity to be trending.
“When you're in the game for some time you understand what is happening, so nothing will crack you, unless you came in for a certain brand and want to be famous."
He mentioned that coming from a poor background you're always respectful.
"Never kick a man when he's down, and being poor humbles you," he said.