Beloved comedian Alfred Ntombela has revealed how his unmistakable laugh landed him his first acting role at just 19 years old.
Known for his work alongside Leon Schuster, Ntombela’s career spans decades, but it all began with an unexpected audition breakthrough.
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Alfred Ntombela Reveals How His Iconic Laugh Launched His Acting Career
The actor shared the story of how his laugh became the key to his first role in a Schuster movie, a chance encounter that would define his career.
“Ken [Gampu] saw potential in me,” Ntombela explained, speaking of his late manager. “So, he went to Leon Schuster, who was looking for kids to cast. However, it was hard to work with kids because you had to feed them lines.”
Despite his enthusiasm, Ntombela almost missed the opportunity.
“Ken took me to the studio they were filming at. I ran my lines, but Leon wasn’t that impressed. Yes, I could read lines, unlike the kids, but I hadn’t impressed him,” he said.
The turning point came unexpectedly during a break.
“As we were going on the break, Leon told a joke, and I laughed. Once he heard the laugh, he knew I was the one. I got the role,” he recounted.
That iconic laugh would become one of his trademarks in South African cinema.
Back on Screen with a New Role
Now, at 52, Ntombela is making his return to the big screen in Mabaso Family Reunion, a Netflix film by Black Brain Pictures. The role marks his first major appearance since Mr Bones 3: Son of Bones in 2022.
Ntombela recalled how he landed the role in the new film.
“I met Mandla N [the executive producer] at the airport, and I was excited to see him. He looked at me and laughed. When I asked why he was laughing, he said he was already imagining the character I’d be playing,” he said.
That character, HushPuppy, resonated immediately with Ntombela.
“When he left, I started thinking about it and realised I was excited,” he added.
The film, featuring stars like Dr. Jerry Mofokeng and Natasha Thahane, promises to be a hit. Ntombela is thrilled to be part of it, stating:
“I’m happy to be back. The last time I was on the screen and sitting in a cinema was when I did Mr Bones 3.”