American actor Malik Yoba is heading to Mzansi screens in a big way. The 57-year-old star—known for his roles in New York Undercover, Empire, and Why Did I Get Married?—has officially joined the cast of Netflix’s hit series Kings of Jo’burg. And yes, fans can expect sparks to fly as he steps into the role of Connie Ferguson’s on-screen love interest.
Yoba, who is currently in South Africa to attend the show’s official premiere in Johannesburg this Friday, shared his excitement in a recent interview with Sowetan.
“I started watching the show when it came out a few years ago. It was rare to see a South African show hit my screen in New York, thanks to Netflix,” he said.
“I’m always happy to be back in SA.”
A Role Meant for Him
Yoba credits his longtime friend, producer Samad Davis, for connecting him to the opportunity.
“He told me there was a role for me and asked if I could come back to SA for three weeks in Cape Town – he didn’t even need to twist my arm.”
Although he has worked across the globe, this marks Yoba’s first time filming on African soil.
On-Set Chemistry and South African Talent
Yoba described his time on set as “incredible,” adding that the South African cast impressed him deeply.
“From Connie to Clint [Brink], the whole cast is a great group of actors who are committed to the craft,” he said.
“It was a pleasure and an honour working with Connie. She’s been in the business for decades, and she’s really sweet, very kind and strong. Connie is the real deal.”
Meet Isador: Fighting for Love
Yoba plays Isador, an American who becomes romantically involved with Connie Ferguson’s character. Without giving too much away, he teased the storyline:
“Her character is trying to escape her reality by moving to America. Some things happen that bring her back to SA. So, I come basically to fight for my woman. I’ll leave it there.”
And as for the on-screen romance?
“All I can say is that we’re definitely a couple. You’ll have to watch and see.”
More Than Just Acting
Beyond the screen, Yoba is a passionate entrepreneur. His recent partnership with South African tech startup FracProp, which focuses on democratizing property investment, reflects his long-standing commitment to economic equity.
“Equity for Africans throughout the diaspora has been pivotal for me. I’ve always been an entrepreneur,” he shared.
Although his role in Kings of Jo’burg didn’t push him too far out of his acting comfort zone, Yoba says he’s open to deeper local roles in the future.
“Had I played a South African, I’d say it would’ve been more of a stretch. Eventually, I’d like to be able to play with the accent.”
