On the couch with actor Melusi Yeni

Published May 18, 2016

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Billy Suter chats to actor MELUSI YENI about his TV likes and dislikes. Yeni is cast as Sabelo in The Kingdom – uKhakhayi, the 26-part rural drama series on e.tv at 9.05pm on Tuesdays.

Q: WHAT television shows do you try to not miss?

A: I cannot get enough of Empire. I love the concept, script and cast. I’m also into Gold Diggers.

Some of my favourite actors are doing great work on that show –the likes of Menzi Ngubane and Clementine Mosimane.

Q: Television shows you have loved over the years?

A: As a kid I got to watch Shaka Zulu and I knew, right there and then, that I was interested in the world of performing arts.

Other TV favourites of mine through the years have been Hlala Kwabafileyo, Sgudi Snayisi and Yizo Yizo, to name a few.

Q:Your favourite TV character of all time?

A: Probably Martin Lawrence in Martin … and all of Ndaba Mhlongo’s characters in the 80s.

Q: Your favourite television presenter?

A: It would most probably be Scoop Makhathini, who is unpredictable and has a natural approach to his delivery.

Q: Favourite TV celebrity chefs?

A: Jamie Oliver is my favourite, for sure.

I also never miss Yudhika Sujanani’s Asian and Indian dishes. I love Indian food.

Also, I have been waiting for Benny Masekwameng (SA MasterChef judge) to come up with a cooking show.

Q: Favourite TV theme tunes over the years?

A: Those from Air Wolf and MacGyver.

Q: A TV show you would love to have remade?

A: I used to love a show called Mind Your Language. I would love to see a local version where the teacher was Zulu and had a Nigerian, Indian, Afrikaner, Venda and a Zimbabwean in his class – all there to learn how to speak Zulu.

Q: The funniest thing you ever saw on television?

A: That would have to be Julius Malema… every time he is in Parliament. Priceless!

Q: DStv channels you most enjoy?

A: All movie and sport channels.

Q: If a mini-series were made about your life, who would you like to play you?

A: Mbulelo Ndlazilwana, currently in Scandal.

I have seen him grow as an actor and I think that he is talented and going places.

Q: Some of your favourite TV ads of all time?

A: I always look forward to the Nando’s ads, as they always get it right. But my favourite advert is the Chicken Licken “Find Inner Piece” ad. It’s boss!

Q: The TV celebrity you most like?

A: Trevor Noah … that boy is smiling all the way to the bank.

Q: What should there be more of on television – and what should there be less of?

Q: Please, less Kardashian garbage and more local reality TV.

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