Popular Skeem Saam actor Cedric Fourie, who portrays the charismatic Lehasa Maphosa, is facing a dramatic shift in his on-screen persona. His character, once known for his lavish lifestyle and business acumen, is now serving a life sentence in prison, a stark contrast to his previous comfortable existence.
The storyline marks a significant turning point for Lehasa, who has been convicted of serious crimes, plunging him into a harsh new reality.
The downfall of Lehasa Maphosa began around September 2024. His once opulent lifestyle, complete with luxury cars, designer suits, and a prestigious apartment, is now a distant memory. He has lost everything. The character's imprisonment follows his conviction for premeditated murder, a crime that carries a life sentence.
The charges against Lehasa stem from his involvement in the abduction of Pretty (played by Lerato Marabe) and other women by a gang of human traffickers. He was found guilty of murdering two of these traffickers, a crime that has ultimately led to his incarceration. The storyline also incorporates charges of theft and scamming, adding further layers to his complex character arc.
Lehasa's transition from a life of luxury to prison life promises to be a compelling narrative. The storyline will explore his adaptation to this drastically different environment, where he must navigate a complex social hierarchy and learn the harsh realities of survival. Viewers will witness Lehasa's struggle to identify allies and adversaries amongst his fellow inmates.
The prison setting introduces a host of new characters to the Skeem Saam universe, adding depth and intrigue to Lehasa's storyline. Starting from January 7th, viewers will meet a diverse cast of inmates, each with their own story and motivations. Amongst these new faces are Ta Austin (played by Ronald Mkwanazi), Vader (played by Thabo Gwadiso), and Pavarotti (played by Thulani Kunene). A familiar face, Craig Klassen, played by Jerome Du Plooy, will also be introduced. On 8 January, Malibongwe Mdwaba joins the cast as Shongwe.
Adding further complexity to the prison environment, viewers will meet Dr Blue (played by Tauné Block), a prison doctor, later in January. Her introduction suggests the possibility of medical emergencies and further dramatic events within the prison walls. The character of Dr Blue adds another dynamic layer to the storyline, hinting at potential conflicts and challenges for Lehasa and the other inmates.
The storyline promises to explore the complexities of prison life, showcasing the diverse experiences and challenges faced by those incarcerated. Lehasa's journey will test his resilience and resourcefulness, forcing him to confront his past actions and navigate a new world where survival is paramount.
The show will delve into the dynamics between the inmates, highlighting the importance of alliances and the ever-present threat of betrayal.
