Rapulana Seiphemo Turns 53!

Today, November 04, 2020, marks the 53rd birthday of award-winning South African actor Rapulana Seiphemo.

Despite all the drama that has surrounded his name in recent weeks, today we celebrate his talent and contribution to the South African television and film industry.

Rapulana was born and raised in the township of Meadowlands in South Africa. He completed his high school studies and headed to the United States to complete his BA in Theatre Arts. After completing his studies he returned back home in South Africa and started teaching at Fuba Academy, before joining the Sibikwa Community Theatre Group in 1996 and Wits University as a tutor in 1997.

In the early 90s, Rapulana featured in several theatre productions including, The Merchant of Venice (1991), Saturday Night at the Palace written by Paul Slabolepszy (1993), the Piano Lesson written by August Wilson (1996) and many more.

His first notable role was that of Godlieb Mofokeng in SABC 3’s popular drama Isidingo. He featured on the soap drama between 1998 to 2001. His other notable role is that of Tau Mogale on Generations and Generations: The Legacy for almost 20 years. Back in 2006, he was also cast as Pheko on SABC 2’s long-running drama Muvhango.

Films that he has featured on include, Rhythm and Rights, a TV docu-drama directed by Oliver Schmidt (1995); Deafening Silence, Jump the Gun, a feature film directed by Les Blair (1996); Tarzan and Jane, directed by Carl Schenkel (1997); and Highjack Stories (2000). The actor also landed a lead role in Akin Omotoso’s God is African film and also played the role of John Dube in the award-winning Tsotsi. In 2007 he appeared in the critically-acclaimed South African film Jerusalema.

TV Mzansi also wished the star a happy birthday on their Instagram account.

Happy birthday to this remarkable actor @rapulanas 🎉

Widely known for his role as Tau in Generations: The Legacy & currently portrays Hector on The Queen. He has been in the industry for decades-long, serving us stunning performances on our favourite TV shows & feature films. pic.twitter.com/rBfb64l6OX

— TV Mzansi (@TvMzansi) November 4, 2020