Sdumo Mtshali Pays Tribute to 'Marked' Co-star Lerato Mvelase in Touching Instagram Post

• Sdumo Mtshali took to Instagram to share some heartfelt words with fellow actress Lerato Mvelase
• The duo recently worked together on the limited Netflix series, Marked, and proved they are bosom buddies both on and off the screen
• Lerato Mvelase, who plays the lead role, believes the series showcases South Africa's world-class talent

He is an award-winning actor who has graced our screens in several hit series.

But actor Sdumo Mtshali is humble enough to give credit where credit is due.

The 42-year-old took to Instagram to thank actress Lerato Mvelase after they worked together on the Netflix series, Marked.

"This was a highlight in my career, working with you @lerato_mvelase," he wrote.

"You are great beyond words. You led us from the front and behind the camera 🎥 Thank you for your generosity and craftsmanship. God bless you."

Fans praise both Sdumo and Lerato

@quizzical_pictures wrote:

"Thank you for bringing your best as usual 👏🏾 Well done!"

@malebo.matshaba commented:

"You portrayed 'that guy who will forever have a girl’s back no matter what'. Your storyline, that one particularly, was relatable and beautiful to watch ❤️"

@iam_snembatha said:

"You were incredible! 😍👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 Halaaaaala!"

@ndabaduduzile0 wrote:

"Rooted in the almighty God. May he guide your steps through and through as you are his vessels 🙌🙌❤️"

@makibedi added:

"Your ability to immerse yourself in a character and become it is unmatched. Thank you for giving yourself so authentically to your craft. We are proud benefactors. Take your flowers. We love you, Sdumo 💞"

The six-part crime drama series was released in July 2025.

It follows the story of Babalwa (played by Lerato), a devout mother who earns an honest but meagre income as a cash-in-transit security guard.

When she learns that her daughter, Palesa (Ama Qamata), has a life-threatening illness, Babalwa tries every possible avenue to pay the medical bills. But desperation drives her to crime, and places the lives of her loved ones, including a dependable colleague named Tebza (Sdumo), in danger.

Lerato Mvelase is passionate about the arts

Lerato, who is best known for her role as Katlego in the SABC1 drama series Home Affairs, immersed herself in Babalwa's story.

"I had to imagine myself, Lerato Mvelase, in this desperate and life-threatening situation with my kids," she told online publication What's on Netflix. "This allowed me to give Babalwa a real sense of existence."

The 43-year-old actress added that being on a global platform like Netflix allows local actors to show the world what they're made of.

Lerato has always been an advocate for South African art. She recently slammed Minister Gayton McKenzie for the Department of Arts and Culture's failure to support actors.

She delivered a passionate speech at the late actress Nandi Nyembe's funeral.

"We are fighting with the system that has been putting actors down our whole lives," Lerato said.

Her speech garnered support from both fans and fellow celebrities alike, including radio presenter Sizwe Dhlomo.

Sdumo Mtshali mourns the loss of fellow actor

In a previous article, Briefly News reported on Sdumo Mtshali's heartbreak after the death of his iNumber Number co-star Presley Chweneyagae.

The actor died in May 2025 due to natural causes after struggling with breathing problems. He was 40 years old.

At Presley's memorial service, Sdumo paid tribute to his friend's "admirable acting skills" and added he was grateful to share the screen with him.

Proofreading by Roxanne Dos Ramos, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.

Source: Briefly News