There is a new face in the Afrikaans telenovela Arendsvlei – and he’s from right here in Eureka Estate innie Elsies.
Breyton Fortuin, 24, is playing Tandjies a beggar and says he went from an extra to a permanent cast member.
“I always said that I want to be in Arendsvlei, it would be the launch of my career,” he explained.
“I went to the Arendsvlei studios in Montague Gardens and Eerste River a number of times and got rejected, but I never gave up.
“I was a EPWP worker at a school in Eindhoven, Delft and after nine months, my contract ended.”
Breyton joined Tern Casting Agency and went for auditions last October when Arendsvlei was looking for extras.
He was the first person to arrive at the studios in Montague Gardens at 5.30am.
“I was nervous but they were impressed with my acting and said I hoekal have mooi teeth so that is where I got the name [Tandjies],” Breyton joked.
“My first scene was small but I made that short moment my entire moment and last month they contacted me to say that I am officially part of the Arendsvlei cast and they want me back!
“God has given me this talent and opportunity to use as part of my ministry to encourage the youth of Eureka Estate because whenever you go into that community, there is always bad news about who got shot and who did what.”
Be on the lookout for ‘Randjies for Tandjies’ on Arendsvlei on kykNET & Kie.
Meanwhile, Breyton says he is heartbroken as the Safta award-winning soapie is due to end in June 2024.
“It is very sad that it has to end because Arendsvlei gave us who don’t have qualifications an opportunity to show our talent and tell the stories of the Coloured people.
“I am glad that I get to be a part of the show,” the talented outjie added.