Thapelo Mokoena – Trackers

By starrymag | June 19, 2020

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) What are the recent projects that you have been busy working on?  

A) Well, besides project #LOCKDOWN, I have just recently wrapped up filming on UK’s number cop series “Bulletproof” Special Season 3. Currently, working on getting back on set to film my new movie & International series project.

Q) Please tell us the premise for “Trackers.” 

A) “Trackers” is story of five different sets of characters and lives coming together in the most unexpected way. After a false alarm on Operation PHELINDABA, the PBI (Presidential Bureau of Intelligence) have one more chance to get this right and stop the threat that is looming in Cape Town.

Q) What made you want to be a part of the series? 

A) Two things: One: It’s a Deon Meyer book adaptation. Two: The project had all the ingredients to be a top show. As an actor who picks his roles carefully, this series ticked all the boxes.

 

Q) How was Quinn Makebe originally described to you? 

A) A man who has worked his way up the ranks in the PBI, he has plans to make it to the top. With his young family at home, he has no choice but to come out of this operation alive. Ambitious and calculated. A man of integrity, until challenged otherwise.

Q) Was there anything you added to him that wasn’t in the initial breakdown for the role? 

A) Oh yes. First, he was a white male in the book, so I added some melanin to him. [laughs] Secondly, together with the director we agreed to bring his family into the picture. Heighten the stakes, make them real. I also gave him Zulu as a home language. This is Africa after all. We have many special ingredients for our characters.

Q) Were you familiar with any of your costars before working with them on this show? 

A) Luckily, yes. A powder ensemble off the best of black and white South African cast.

Q) Were you looking forward to sharing a scene(s) with someone in particular from the cast? 

A) Absolutely! Scenes with Sisanda Henna, Rolanda Marais, Sandi Schultz and a lot more.

Q) The setting of a show or film often take on a role as well. How does the city of Cape Town play a significant part in “Trackers?” 

A) Again, this is Africa. The treasure and heavenly locations (GOOD or BAD) never end. Filming in South Africa was the significant move.

Q) What were some of your favorite scenes to film? 

A) I loved any first day on set. I filmed in the desert.

Q) How did you shake off a long day of shooting? 

A) Simple, I am a runner and cyclist. Before and after work I train.

Q) What do you think it is about “Trackers” that will make it a quick fan favorite action show? 

A) It is a well-produced and budgeted for African crime thriller.

Q) You are a part of social media. Are you looking forward to the fan feedback you’ll be receiving from US audiences? 

A) God put us on Earth as human beings. It’s a no brainer that we all play on the same global stage comfortably. We are of the world, therefore it’s high time we share stages, platforms and content. The digital era offers all the solutions and Africa is that one ingredient that has been misused or under-utilized. Now the world has an opportunity to consume us differently and fairly.

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of you and the work you do? 

A) “It takes a village to raise a child.” Thank you for growing with me in my almost twenty-year career. At thirty-seven years old I am grateful to God and the African stars for this journey. Let’s keep walking together. I’ll keep bringing these AFRICAN characters to life with no holding back on greatness. Thank you, Africa.

To the world, say hello to the AFRICAN GIANTS. We are ready!