Popular South African actress Natasha Thahane is back on screen with a powerful new role in Netflix’s latest crime drama series, Marked.
In the show, she plays Nelisa Kunene, the daughter of Thandeka Kunene (played by Linda Sokhulu) and Zachariah Kunene (played by Desmond Dube). The series is set to captivate viewers with its intense plot and emotionally complex characters.
While Nelisa Kunene has both parents present in her fictional life, Natasha recently revealed that her real-life upbringing was very different. In an interview with The Citizen, she shared that she was raised by her grandmother, not by her mom and dad.
“All my characters have actually had a mother and a father, and I was raised by my grandmother,” she said.
Despite being raised by her grandmother, Natasha clarified that her parents are still very much part of her life.
“My mom and dad are very much present, I love them, but I’m a granny’s child,” she added.
Marked: A Story of Moral Dilemma and Sacrifice
The six-episode series “Marked” follows Babalwa, a cash-in-transit security guard played by Lerato Mvelase, who finds herself entangled in a perilous web of decisions. As she fights to protect what matters most, the lines between right and wrong begin to blur. The show promises gripping action, emotional depth, and complex storytelling — and Natasha’s character is right at the heart of it.
Healing Through Art
This isn’t the first time Natasha has portrayed characters with strong family ties. She was well-known for her role as Amogelang ‘Amo’ Maake in The Queen on Mzansi Magic and as Wendy Dlamini in Netflix’s Blood & Water, both of whom had involved parents in their narratives.
Reflecting on these roles, Natasha admitted that playing daughters with both parents present has been therapeutic for her.
“All my characters have had a mother and a father in the house. So they’re [child and parents] having a dynamic and having that conversation, I realised that at their age I didn’t have that because I stayed with my grandmother,” she said.
“God has been healing me through those characters.”
A Rising Star With Deep Roots
Known for her talent, authenticity, and emotional range, Natasha Thahane continues to shine on both local and international screens. Her role in Marked is yet another example of how she blends personal depth with professional excellence — turning every character into an opportunity for reflection and growth.
With Marked now streaming on Netflix, fans can witness Natasha deliver yet another memorable performance — one that hits close to home in more ways than one.
