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| Top Actor Africa finalists |
After touring Africa's biggest cities, BET has finally unveiled the 12 finalists for their reality TV show, Top Actor Africa. The auditions were held in Nairobi, Lagos and Johannesburg in October.
The hopefuls will be vying for the coveted prize of $10,000 and a one-year contract with an international agent which will give them access to Hollywood auditions.
The 12 finalists include Kenya's Lorreine Wangui Gakuo and Alexander Eliab Khainga, South Africa is represented by Hendrik Lombard, Shamilla , Farrell Drew, Marilyn Sekgapane, Jesse Suntele, Simhle Belinda Plaatjies and Sabelo Sibeko and last but not least Ifeanyi Dike, Tobechi Nneji and Uriel Oputa from Nigeria.
In a press release issued by BET Africa, Top Actor Africa will be testing the actors in nine genres: Improve to Comedy, Theatre, Soapie, Commercial, Romance, Horror, Drama and Action. They will also work alongside Hollywood and local industry professionals including actors, directors, producers and casting directors.
According to Samad Davis, Creator and Executive Producer of Top Actor, "This show is truly a door-opener for aspiring actors. Last year's winner went from being a student fresh out of drama school to having a regular presenting job on TV (in BET Buzz) to appearing in an American feature film alongside Hollywood notables in just a few months."
South African actress Zikhona Sodlaka returns as host for the second season. The first season titled 'Top Actor SA' was won by South African drama student, Altovice Lawrence, who's currently in in the USA for her first Hollywood film role. She also doubles as host of BET Buzz.
For a continent made up of over 50 countries, auditions were only open in three. Can you imagine? Nigeria and South Africa are always the usual suspects. Kenya features every now and then. Top Actor Africa is a career changing opportunity; I'm talking a 360 degree impact here and it's only available to a chosen few? Really? These three countries are undoubtedly the continent's giants as well as major states in their respective regions however, an open platform accessible to the continent's uncovered talent ought to be provided.
I'm all for Team Africa but when it's a handful getting a piece of the pie, it's unfair. I hope the next season is more diverse and inclusive, because this is a top notch opportunity; the exposure alone, not only to Africa but internationally. There's more to Africa than 3 countries.
Congratulations to the finalists. Someone's life is about to change, forever! Top Actor Africa premiers in February 2016 on BET, channel 129 (DStv).