WATCH | First look at Mpho Sebeng’s final work on ‘016FM’

Actor Mpho Sebeng starred on Showmax's 016FM in his final role before his untimely death.

The South African Film and Television Awards nominee died in a car crash on May 5.

Mpho played the role of DJ Whiskey in the drama series that follows two polar opposite DJs who compete in a radical battle on air to save their much-loved community radio station in the Vaal from closing. 

016FM’s star-studded cast includes Joseph Sedibo, Nthati Moshesh, Sophie Ndaba, Sello Motloung, Katlego Mabote, Mapula Mafole, Noni Mafani,, Mapaseka Koetle, and Mbasa Msongelo.

Speaking about his character in his last interview, Mpho described DJ Whiskey as “someone who likes the limelight and wants to be number one”.

“What piqued my interest about 016FM is that it is a story that is about the Vaal. I feel like there haven't been many stories that have shed a light on this particular part of the country. The Vaal is such a melting pot of culture, fashion and language, which was something I was drawn to while doing my research about the area,” he said.

Preparing for the character took a lot of research, Mpho said.

He immersed himself in the pop cultural movement in the Vaal, which he found was influenced by Italian high fashion. 

“I immersed myself in understanding the movement to have a better understanding of the character. I had to take time to hang around with the locals, specially the people who started the culture of ama-Italiana and izikhothane.

“I also watched a lot of videos and skits online. I would purposefully look for skits made by people from the Vaal going about their day. I’d also link up with friends from Sebokeng and Sharpeville [which form part of the six townships in the Vaal] and that helped with fleshing out the character. The research gave me a deep appreciation and respect for the area. This place has so much history and so much to offer. A show like 016FM shows the great potential that is within the people of the Vaal.