Melusi Yeni is a well-known South African actor and singer who has made a significant impact in television dramas and soap operas. He gained recognition for his performances in popular TV shows such as Tshisa, Home Affairs, and Generations, becoming a familiar face in the South African entertainment industry. His career spans many years with diverse roles showcasing his acting range alongside his musical talent.
Profile Summary
Full Name | Melusi Yeni |
Date of Birth | 22 October 1977 |
Place of Birth | KwaMashu, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa |
Nationality | South African |
State of Origin | KwaZulu-Natal |
Partner | Palesa Molemela |
Children | 1 |
Occupations | Actor, Singer, TV Presenter |
Net Worth | $500,000 – $1 million |

Early Life and Education
Born and raised in KwaMashu, KwaZulu-Natal, Melusi Yeni grew up in a nurturing environment under the care of his mother who worked as a nurse.
He attended St Benedict’s Convent in Pinetown and later Durban High School. During his youth, he was involved in music through the Natal Youth Choir and toured with Ladysmith Black Mambazo, which helped lay the foundation for his artistic career.
Career
Melusi Yeni began his acting career in 1997 with a role in the soap opera Isidingo. He subsequently appeared on Muvhango and then secured a major role in Tshisa as Bheki Shabalala.
He worked in Home Affairs and had a notable part in The Wild. Between 2012 and 2013, he was featured in Generations as Phenyo Mazibuko before taking a brief break from TV. He then starred in Sokhulu & Partners from 2008 to 2016.
More recently, Yeni appeared in Durban Gen and began starring in Amalanga Awafani in 2025.
Personal Life

In 2016, Melusi Yeni faced serious health issues that led to a two-week hospital stay. That year also involved a public maintenance dispute with his former partner Palesa Molemela, over their child. Despite personal challenges, he continues to work actively in acting.
Net Worth
Melusi Yeni’s net worth is estimated to be between $500,000 and $1 million, a reflection of his income earned through a thriving acting career in prominent South African TV dramas and films, along with his involvement in music and production activities.
Filmography
- Isidingo (1997)
- Muvhango (1997)
- Mtunzini.com (2006)
- Tshisa (2006–2009; guest in 2012)
- Home Affairs (2007)
- Sokhulu & Partners (2008–2016)
- Invictus (2009)
- 4Play: Sex Tips for Girls (2010–2012)
- Shreds and Dreams (2010)
- The Wild (2011–2012)
- Generations (2012–2013)
- Durban Gen (2022)
- Amalanga Awafani (2025–present)
Discography
Melusi Yeni has not released solo albums but has musical experience from early performances with Natal Youth Choir and Ladysmith Black Mambazo.