South Africa is not just a country of extreme and rugged beauty (although it is renowned for its spectacular coastlines and landscapes); it is also a country with a wonderfully vibrant culture and a thriving arts community. Some of South Africa’s most successful exports have been its actors and actresses who, whilst forging highly successful careers on the world stage, still manage to retain their uniquely South African roots.
If you’re planning a trip to South Africa, chances are, somewhere along your travels you’ll come across a monument or tribute to one or other of their famous sons or daughters. Who knows, you may even see one in the flesh if you’re lucky!
Charlize Theron
Considered one of the most beautiful women on the planet, and certainly one of the best known actresses in Hollywood today, Charlize Theron’s star has continued to rise since the late 1990s. Originally trained as a ballet dancer, injury forced her to reconsider her options and she bought a one way ticket to Los Angeles determined to succeed in acting. After pivotal roles in films like the Devil’s Advocate and the Cider House Rules, she won the controversial role of convicted murderer Aileen Wournos. Her magnificent performance earned her the honour of becoming the first person from South Africa (and indeed any country in Africa) to win an Oscar – acting’s highest accolade.
Basil Rathbone
While the younger set may be surprised to learn that someone more famous than Robert Downey Jnr has been associated with the character of Sherlock Holmes, back in the 1930s and 40s the role belonged to one man who made it completely his own; the debonair Basil Rathbone. Born in South Africa in the late 1800s, Rathbone and his family fled Johannesburg to escape the Boers. Raised in England, the acting bug hit Rathbone when he was young and he excelled in theatre productions and amateur roles. But the draw to America was strong and he forged a successful Broadway career before settling in Hollywood. He won the coveted role of brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes, whom he played in thirteen films over many years. South Africa still remembers Basil Rathbone fondly and he is considered one of the country’s greatest success stories.
Sid James
Many people are shocked to find out that one of Britain’s best loved comedians who epitomised the ‘cheeky chappy’ cockney persona was, in fact, from South Africa. Hugely successful for his roles in the ‘Carry On’ films, Sid James become a much loved British institution but his early life couldn’t have been more different. He worked as diamond cutter, dance teacher, and then had a successful career as a hairdresser before catching the acting bug. After spending his time in the Second World War in the South African Army, he emigrated to England where his acting career blossomed. Firmly entrenched in Britain’s comedic heritage, when he died, Sid James left behind a fond reputation as one of the world’s most lovable rascals.
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