He is nominated for Best Actor in Supporting Role on The Queenstown Kings at the 20th Africa Movie Academy Awards! Actor and Voice-over artist, Unathi Faku (Platyi) goes against the grain in his craft with a commanding presence in both physical stature and talent. He is a distinguished actor on the rise whose performances resonate with depth and authenticity. Unathi’s journey into acting was marked by a passion for storytelling and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Unathi’s career is studded with notable achievements across film, television, and commercials. His supporting role in the acclaimed film Kings of Queenstown, alongside industry luminaries, showcased his ability to command attention on the big screen. On television, his performances in series such as Heist, Dreamworld,” Keeping Score, Blood Plsams, A Digger in the Dark, Gqeberha the Empire, and Uxolo have earned him widespread acclaim, demonstrating his versatility and range as an actor. This being his very first nomination, is an honour.
“This is my first nomination as an actor, and it means a lot to get validation from my industry peers at such prestigious awards in the continent. It would be a huge pat on the back if either myself or Sandile get the crown. But being nominated is a big deal,” Unathi shares.
QUESTION AND ANSWER
What was the role that gave you your breakthrough?
I have acted in several productions, but the role that gave me my big break is in The Queenstown Kings, which I am nominated for. The role challenged me as an actor, to push myself and get out of my comfort zone. It was a do-or-die project, and I am happy people received it well.
What have been your biggest challenges in establishing yourself as an actor?
The biggest challenge has always been not getting enough responsibility and challenges on previous shows. I like to be thrown in the deep end and expected to swim, as I work well under pressure.
Hailing from the township of Mdantsane, in East London, what part of your upbringing do you include in your acting and storytelling?
I always try and include discipline and focus in my acting because I know it’s not an easy journey to come where I come from to be recognised in the industry. So, I always have to look back and remember where I come from. There is no film industry where I come from at all, so I have to work ten times shared to prove myself, and to always stay disciplined.
Who do you look up to and Who has been instrumental in your career?
I have so many people I can mention who have helped to shape me. But I am my best inspiration, I always count myself in when it comes to that question. However, Yellowbone Productions producer Jahmil Qhubeka has been incredibly instrumental in my career and growth. He believed in me and pushed me. I have also been fortunate to work and be friends with the greats in industry giants such as Zolisa Xaluva and others.
Cece Smith 