Thembi Seete Opens up About Her Role in ‘Adulting’ Season 2

Actress and singer Thembi Seete shares insights into her role in the upcoming season of Showmax’s popular drama series, ‘Adulting.’

SAFTA nominee Thembi Seete, known for her iconic role in Boom Shaka during the ’90s and her diverse career in TV shows like Jika Majika, Yizo Yizo, Gaz’lam, Zone 14, and Gomora, is set to captivate audiences in the new season of Showmax’s hit drama, ‘Adulting.’

In ‘Adulting’ Season 2, Thembi takes on the character of Portia, a middle-aged, affluent housewife experiencing her sexual peak. The season premieres on Showmax on December 4, with subsequent episodes airing every Monday.

Thembi provides insights into her role, describing Portia as a devoted housewife with a loving family, yet feeling an emotional void. Frustrated by her husband’s misguided actions, Portia decides to take control of her happiness, seeking fulfillment outside her conventional life. She explores new dimensions, paying for and relishing experiences that bring her joy.

Expressing excitement about this unique role, Thembi mentions that playing a rich, spoiled, and glamorous character is a departure from her previous roles.

Thembi addresses societal taboos around discussing sex and intimacy, emphasizing the importance of open conversations. She believes that discomfort arises from the lack of communication on these topics in previous generations. The actress acknowledges the challenges of intimate scenes in this role, describing them as the most intense of her career.

Thembi Seete on Crticism That Comes With Intimacy

“There comes a point in life when you get tired of playing it safe. You sort of want to stretch yourself a bit and kind of surprise yourself. I love the element of surprising myself and not being too comfortable with the things that I do. I know a lot of people will be like, ‘Thembi seems like she’s very strict with herself and she’s a good role model.’

Despite her nearly three-decade-long acting journey, Thembi remains consistent by embracing continuous learning. She emphasizes the need to approach each character as a unique challenge, avoiding the risk of blending roles. Thembi’s commitment to growth, curiosity, and the guidance of acting coaches contributes to her enduring success in the industry.

“I explore different elements of each character I portray. It’s very possible to bring Gladys [from Gomora] into Portia if I don’t do my homework or if I’m not intentional about my moves. So I have to consistently approach my work as a student all the time and remain open to learning,” she says.

“I was lucky that they paired me with a very crazy person [Luthando BU Mthembu who portrays Vuyani], who’s easy-going and very good at making me comfortable. He made me so comfortable so I don’t think about myself too much. That’s the beauty about acting – it allows you to forget about yourself and to wear this character. I was able to put Thembi aside and be about Portia. But it’s also a blessing and a cherry on top when you have a co-actor that is as supportive and confident.”