Thami Mngqolo, born Zeke Elakhe Lungelo Mngqolo on 9 September 1982, is a prominent South African actor, director, voice artist, and presenter. He is best known for his lead role as Senzo Dlomo in the popular television series Generations. Mngqolo has also acted in other notable projects including State Enemy No.1 and Greed and Desire.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Zeke Elakhe Lungelo Mngqolo |
| Date of Birth | 9 September 1982 |
| Place of Birth | Johannesburg |
| Nationality | South African |
| State of Origin | Gauteng |
| Partner | Jo-Anne Reyneke (2008–2018) |
| Children | Uvolwethu (born 2013), Lungelo (born 2015) |
| Occupations | Actor, Director, Voice Artist, Presenter |
| Net Worth | $400,000 |
Early Life and Education
Mngqolo was born in Johannesburg and grew up in Gauteng province. He is the second child in his family and had an elder sister who passed away in 2016.
He pursued formal training in acting by completing a Bachelor of Dramatic Art at the University of the Witwatersrand. During his time there, he gained experience through participation in various theatre productions, preparing him for a versatile career in entertainment.
Career
Thami Mngqolo’s breakthrough came in 2003 when he was cast in Generations, portraying Senzo Dlomo, a pioneering gay character on South African television. He remained a key member of the cast until 2016, when the main cast was dismissed amid disputes over pay.
After Generations, he took on roles in several other TV series such as Greed and Desire, Igazi, and Isono, as well as in films including State Enemy No.1.
In addition to acting, Mngqolo has worked as a presenter and voice artist, and has ventured into directing and media production.
Personal Life
Mngqolo was in a long-term relationship with actress Jo-Anne Reyneke from 2008 to 2018. Together, they have two children, Uvolwethu born in 2013 and Lungelo born in 2015. The couple eventually separated but continue to co-parent their children.
Net Worth
Thami Mngqolo’s net worth is estimated to be around $400,000. This estimate reflects his long career in television and film, including his well-known role in Generations, along with other acting, presenting, and directing work.
Filmography
- Generations (2003–2016) as Senzo Dlomo (TV series)
- Greed and Desire (2016) as Kenny Msomi (TV series)
- Igazi (2016) as Jonga Mbangatha (TV series)
- State Enemy No.1 (2020) as Thulani (Film)
- Isono (2020) as Maradona (TV series)
- Additional roles in productions such as Muvhango, Angel’s Song, and The Payback
Awards and Nominations
Thami Mngqolo received recognition within the South African entertainment industry, including a South African Film and Television Award (SAFTA) for Best Supporting Actor in a TV Soap for his work on Generations. His portrayal of a gay character broke new ground in South African television storytelling.
