Former Idols SA contestant and Ringo Madlingozi's son Phila gets recognition for Gqeberha: The Empire role that got him FIRED

Phila Madlingozi, son of renowned South African musician Ringo Madlingozi and a former contestant on Idols SA, is celebrating a surprising nomination for the 2024 National Film & TV Awards.

The actor and singer has received a nod for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Ntando in the first season of the Mzansi Magic telenovela, Gqeberha: The Empire, despite being replaced in the show's second season. Phila got the role while mourning his late mom and it helped him to grieve.

The nomination comes as a welcome surprise, especially considering the circumstances of his departure from the show. According to insiders, Phila's contract was terminated due to concerns about the quality of his acting, alleged "diva tendencies," and consistent tardiness.

A source close to the production revealed that Phila frequently arrived late, sometimes under the influence of alcohol, and made unreasonable demands on set.

"He was always late for production. He would arrive drunk for work and sometimes hungover. He thought he had arrived and this was highly unprofessional. He is also a diva on set and makes unreasonable demands," the insider said.

Despite the difficult circumstances surrounding his dismissal, Phila expressed his delight at the nomination.

“It feels great. I didn’t expect it, especially since I no longer play Ntando. I honestly thought Oros [Mampofu, his replacement] would get nominated, but I'm excited that people in the industry took my performance seriously and gave me an opportunity to compete,” he shared.

He also revealed that he spoke to Oros about the nomination and that his friend was happy for him. Their friendship predates their involvement in Gqeberha: The Empire.

Phila's role as Ntando held deep personal significance.

“I grew up in Gqeberha and it was an honour to portray someone from those townships. We haven’t had an isiXhosa soapie shot and produced in the Eastern Cape before. It meant a lot to the people. It represents my people, and I think that’s what audiences connected with,” he explained.

The opportunity to work on a project that showcased his heritage and provided employment for aspiring filmmakers in the Eastern Cape was particularly meaningful to him.

The actor acknowledged the emotional impact of his dismissal. “It was devastating. Gqeberha: The Empire was everything to me. Not just another job. I was given an opportunity to return home and be part of a project that created job opportunities for many kids and film students from AFDA. It broke my heart when I was let go. It was even worse to hear they decided to cancel the show,” he admitted.

The cancellation of the show, following his departure, added another layer of disappointment to an already difficult situation.

Despite the challenges, Phila maintains a positive outlook. He views each acting role as an opportunity for growth and development.

"Gqeberha: The Empire was another opportunity to play a different character and push myself as a performer. I’ve been fortunate to be given opportunities to portray a variety of roles and this experience was no different in pushing my limits," he stated.

He hopes his fans, particularly those from the Eastern Cape, will support his nomination and help him secure the award.

Phila's journey into the entertainment industry extends beyond acting. He is also a passionate musician, having participated in Idols SA season 11 in 2015, reaching the Top 16 before being eliminated.

His appearance on the show generated considerable discussion on social media, with some viewers questioning the judges' decision not to eliminate him until he reached the Top 16.

Now, with his nomination for the National Film & TV Awards, Phila is once again proving his talent and resilience in the face of adversity.