Samukele Mkhize Opens Up About Khwezi’s Turbulent Journey on Skeem Saam: “She’s Carrying More Emotional Weight”
Actress Samukele Mkhize has become one of the most recognisable faces on Skeem Saam, thanks to her gripping portrayal of Khwezi Gasela — a character constantly walking the tightrope between love, danger, and the consequences of her own decisions. But even with years of experience in emotionally demanding roles, Mkhize admits that Khwezi has pushed her further than she ever expected.
Speaking to Sunday World, Mkhize reflected on how deeply she has had to immerse herself in Khwezi’s world, especially now that her character is facing murder accusations, strained relationships, and the kind of pressure that forces a person to confront their darkest fears.
She describes Khwezi as “a woman standing at a dangerous crossroads,” caught between protecting herself and holding onto the man she loves. With tensions rising in every direction, Khwezi’s storyline has become one of the most debated plots on social media, drawing strong reactions from viewers who either defend her fiercely or condemn her decisions.
Living Inside Khwezi
Although Khwezi can be ruthless, calculated and unpredictable, Mkhize speaks about her with an almost gentle familiarity — the sort that comes from portraying a character long enough to understand her internal battles.
“Khwezi has definitely become more guarded. She’s always been strategic. But the accusations forced her to confront the vulnerability she never planned for. She’s still determined, but she’s carrying a lot more emotional weight,” said Mkhize.
To navigate this complexity, the actress relies heavily on preparation.
“Research, journaling, and quiet time before shooting helps me step into that psychological pressure cooker,” she said.
Love, Loyalty and Survival
One of Khwezi’s toughest dilemmas is the conflict between her freedom and the man she loves. It is an emotional tug-of-war that keeps viewers guessing about her next move.
“Her choices are never straightforward. She’s torn between loyalty and survival. I can’t say what she’ll do next, but she always follows her instincts. She’s a survivor, even when it costs her.”
Despite Khwezi’s questionable actions, Mkhize believes that audiences sometimes judge the character too harshly without considering her circumstances.
“Khwezi is flawed, yes, but so is everyone. Humans can evolve.”
Haunted by Her Past
Mkhize says that Khwezi’s history remains one of the biggest influences on her present behaviour.
“Her past is always in the room with her,” she explains.
Every heartbreak, betrayal, and victory continues to shape Khwezi’s decisions. Even when she does not speak about her wounds, she carries them into every confrontation.
“Every heartbreak, every betrayal, every win… it shapes how she reacts now. She’s learnt tough lessons, even if she doesn’t talk about them.”
Playing Khwezi has also changed Mkhize’s perception of the character.
“I used to think she was just misunderstood and ambitious. Now I have a deeper empathy for her.”
The Real Samukele Behind the Chaos
Khwezi is no stranger to drama and is one of those Skeem Saam characters who trends at least twice a month — whether for chaos she creates or chaos that finds her. But while viewers get wrapped up in the turmoil, Mkhize has learnt how to detach from it when the cameras stop rolling.
“Music, family time, and doing things that remind me who I am, help me switch off,” she said. “I leave Khwezi on set.”
She says fans can be very vocal, especially when the storyline gets intense, but she sees it as a sign of support.
For her, passionate reactions mean the audience cares deeply about the story and the characters.
Hoping for Healing
While careful not to reveal any spoilers, Mkhize hopes the show’s writers eventually allow Khwezi to confront her emotional scars and move towards a healthier version of herself.
“I’d love to see her grow, whether that’s rebuilding, facing herself honestly, or finally finding some peace. She’s never had that.”
There is also a softer side of Khwezi that Mkhize hopes will one day be explored.
“We always see her strength and strategy. I’d love to explore her softness… the side she hides even from herself.”
A Story of Second Chances
At the heart of Khwezi’s storyline lies an exploration of accountability, human complexity, and survival.
“Her story shows that accountability is complicated when your survival is at stake,” Mkhize says.
For the actress, portraying Khwezi has been both challenging and enlightening.
“Playing her reminded me that every decision has a ripple effect.”
Though the road ahead for Khwezi remains uncertain, one thing is clear: Samukele Mkhize has brought extraordinary depth to a character who continues to fascinate — and frustrate — South Africans every week
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