The popular SABC1 educational soapie, Skeem Saam, is currently airing a controversial storyline focusing on rape and consent, igniting a heated national debate. The storyline centres around Lethabo Mekoa (Ntswaki Rathoka) and Sicelo “Seekay” Buthelezi (Tobias "Toby" Maswahla), whose relationship takes a devastating turn.
The storyline culminates in Toby's conviction and subsequent 15-year prison sentence for raping his girlfriend, Ntswaki. This powerful narrative has resonated deeply with viewers, prompting widespread discussion and divided opinions across the country. The show's commitment to tackling such sensitive issues has been both praised and criticised, underscoring the complexities of the subject matter.
Tobias Maswahla, the actor portraying the convicted rapist Toby, shared his perspective on the demanding role with Daily Sun. He stated: “To be honest, playing Toby felt like a big responsibility to carry, considering the fact that as an actor, you'll be seen as that person in the public eye. To carry that pressure was a lot, but I also understood that I was doing the Lord’s work. These stories need to come out. So, if it’s me, I need to carry the story with honesty and no judgement. Pressure was there, and I guess it played well if the viewers are fighting about it.”
Maswahla's comments highlight the weight of portraying such a sensitive and controversial character.
The actor also reflected on the personal growth he experienced during filming, acknowledging the valuable lessons learned about consent: “There are things I’ve learnt. I might not have the right words to articulate them right now but judging from what I’ve seen on screen and read from the script, you get to understand that consent is more than people saying ‘no’. I’m glad it helped open eyes for a lot of people. I would say be weary and careful of how you enter certain situations. It can either go right or wrong. Be careful as an individual. I don’t want to judge those who rooted for Ntswaki or those who rooted for Toby. The message people should get from the storyline is that, as an individual, make a good decision.”
His reflections underscore the educational value of the storyline, extending beyond the immediate narrative.
Vele Manenje, who plays Toby's mother, Evelyn, offered a different yet equally compelling perspective. She emphasized the storyline's impact on her understanding of consent and motherhood: “I also wasn’t well-informed about consent. I had to research what we’re trying to tell South Africans, especially the young ones. Skeem Saam wanted young ones to learn, but we realised the older generation also needed to know about consent. Also, it has taught me about a couple of things such as a mother's resilience, love, sacrifices, patience and the pain our parents go through, and we don’t even know how they make sure we’re fine. The biggest takeaway is a mother’s love.”
Manenje's statement highlights the storyline's multi-layered impact, extending beyond the immediate issue of consent to explore broader themes of family and resilience.
Manenje also shared her experience of portraying Evelyn, acknowledging the challenges and rewards of the role: “Today, at this present moment, it feels good because the message is delivered. However, throughout the storyline, it was a difficult and challenging journey. The most important thing was to express myself or put myself in every mum's shoes. It wasn’t easy, but I had places I referenced from. And also, drawing from the honest place since I’m also a mum.”
Her comments emphasise the emotional depth and commitment required to portray such a complex character.
