Johannesburg This week we feature South African actress, model, media socialite, businesswoman and singer Gail Mabalane.
She is best known for her roles in TV series The Wild and also starred in telenovela series The Road.
She also plays Thandeka Khumalo on hit Netflix series Blood and Water.
Most recently, Mabalane landed the role of Detective Rene Williamson in SA’s new action-packed thriller movie Indemnity.
You are able to star alongside any actor in the world in a hit-action film. Who do you choose to star alongside?
Oh man! There are some incredible actors both locally and internationally. I'm blessed to have worked with a few great ones locally. I would absolutely love to work with the great Denzel Washington! I know you said "hit-action film", he has done a few great ones … but I'd also just love to be on a film set with him to learn and glean wisdom.
The meal that most reminds you of your childhood is…?
Definitely chicken curry and rice. It reminds me of my mom … she cooked it often, and no one can cook it better than she did. It is also the first meal she taught me how to cook. Whenever I cook it now, I'm reminded of the beautiful childhood memories … family gatherings and good soul food.
Your favourite item of clothing in your closet currently is…?
Right now … it has to be a piece I recently got from Africa Your Time Is Now. I fell in love with it the moment I saw it. It's a black sleeveless shirt, but it's all the way long on one side. You can dress it up or down. I feel so cool when I'm in it.
What one thing has caught your attention on social media in the last week…?
Gosh, the aftermath of the devastation in KZN after the floods. It is just heartbreaking. I continue to keep our fellow South Africans in prayer and have been privileged to be able to be a helping hand in a very small way.
Which Netflix series should everyone be watching right now?
Other than Blood and Water … I've just started watching Anatomy of a Scandal". Wow! Without sharing any spoilers, I'll just say it's definitely a must-watch!
Tell us about the worst date you've had…?
Lol … I honestly don't remember. I've been married for nine years now, and I'm not sure if all the memories of bad dates have been erased, or if I actually never had one, but none comes to mind. I've also always “played it safe”, so I'm not sure if I've just always been “in control” on dates.
What is the one thing that most people don't know about you?
I am actually quite a clown … once I get comfortable with the people around me. I think many people may see me as serious and reserved, but my dad was the entertainer in our family, so I think I got that from him. My family and friends stay entertained around me.
The greatest action movie to ever be made is…?
Out of South Africa … definitely Indemnity! I'm proud to have been a part of this cast … the film will be in cinemas on 13th May. Please go and see it, it will be so worth it, plus it's an opportunity to support our local film industry.
You are on death row. You are allowed one last meal and drink. What do you choose to have?
My mom's chicken curry and rice and an ice-cold glass of Oros.
How would you like to be remembered?
Shew! As someone who allowed others to feel good in my presence … who made people feel good about themselves. Someone who gave people permission to be the best versions of themselves. Someone who gave people hope, made them feel loved, made them feel seen.