Oluthando Keteyi|Published
It looks like life is imitating art for "Skeem Saam" actress Hellen Motsuki, who has another reason to celebrate after announcing that she is expecting her second child on her birthday, October 19.
The actress, who plays the ever-talked-about Melita Kgomo on the popular SABC1 soapie, shared the pregnancy news with her followers, making her birthday celebration even more special.
In a case of life mirroring what is happening on screen, Motsuki’s pregnancy coincides with her character Melita’s own pregnancy storyline, which has been unfolding on "Skeem Saam".
Melita is expecting a child with her husband, Obed, marking her first pregnancy in their marriage and opening the door to a new chapter in their relationship.
Life imitating art
Speaking to IOL, Motsuki described the experience of navigating her real-life pregnancy while portraying a pregnant Melita as “surreal in the best way”.
She revealed that the writers had already planned this storyline and her pregnancy became part of the conversation with the writers, and they found a way to incorporate it
“I’m experiencing such a major change in my own life while telling a story that echoes it, so there are moments when the line between my character’s journey and mine feels especially close,” she said.
However, the actress is mindful that while her personal experiences may inform her performance, Melita’s journey remains distinct from her own.
Motsuki explained that being pregnant in real life has made certain scenes feel more immediate and personal, giving her a deeper emotional connection to the character’s experiences.
“Pregnancy can involve excitement, uncertainty, exhaustion and a lot of change, sometimes all at once,” she said.
Support behind the scenes
Balancing pregnancy with the demands of filming has also come with its challenges, with Motsuki acknowledging that some scenes can be demanding as she navigates the physical and emotional changes of pregnancy.
She said the experience has required her to take care of herself while continuing to bring Melita’s journey to life on screen.
Motsuki also highlighted the importance of having a supportive production team during this personal milestone, explaining that feeling supported at work makes a difference as her needs change throughout her pregnancy.
Melita’s pregnancy storyline promises drama
While Motsuki is embracing her own journey to motherhood for a second time, viewers can expect plenty of twists and emotions as Melita navigates pregnancy and the family dynamics that come with it.
The actress described the storyline as one of the most interesting journeys for her character, promising a mix of humour, fear, emotion and entertainment.
“It has so many layers: it’s fun, scary and emotional, and it’s also entertaining and informative, with a bit of everything,” she told IOL.
With Melita frequently becoming a talking point on social media, Motsuki believes the pregnancy storyline will give viewers even more to discuss.
“Melita is always trending across social media because she’s so loved, and I have a feeling this storyline will give everyone even more to talk about,” she said.
For the actress, the experience has also highlighted the importance of having a supportive working environment while navigating such a significant personal milestone.
As she continues filming, Motsuki is looking forward to seeing how audiences respond to Melita’s new chapter, one that, in an unexpected twist, has a special connection to her own life.
IOL