Zakhele Mabasa-Mokone, a renowned actor, is presently playing Fana in the new Showmax series “One Weeks”.
Fana, played by Mabasa-Mokone, is a charming high-school dropout from Soweto who falls in love with Lihle (Sihle Ndaba), a successful lawyer.
In an interview with Zibuyile Dladla, Mabasa-Mokone remarked that in relationships, the dynamics of love and mistakes frequently interweave, resulting in a web of feelings and experiences that many of us can relate to.
For Mabasa-Mokone, the character of Fana in the series “One Weeks” represents a genuine picture of a flawed but endearing individual, and his interactions with others teach vital lessons about love, patience, and the intricacies of human relationships.
“Fana is the type of guy that I’ve come across in my life many times. He’s a guy that likes taking chances and isn’t afraid of doing so.
“Although Fana makes many mistakes, he’s also a lovable person because he’s so real and relatable,” he said.
He also shared that one of the most fascinating aspects of Fana is his willingness to take chances, even if it means encountering a multitude of mistakes along the way.
Mabasa-Mokone also talked about the on-screen relationship between Fana and Angie – potrayed by Mangaliso Alutha Mthembu – has captivated viewers, with Mabasa-Mokone expressing admiration for the character of Mangaliso as a ray of sunshine and an intelligent individual.
“I also loved how much of a team player she is. I find that to be quite rare for a person so young. Mangaliso is a true gem and I’m sure we’re about to see more of her on our screens,” he assured.
Mabasa-Mokone further acknowledges Lihle’s unwavering commitment to choosing Fana, despite societal disparities and external pressures.
“Lihle is more educated and more financially secure than her man, but she constantly chooses to make their relationship work. Her love for Fana shows that no matter what a person may or may not have, at the end of the day, we’re all human and deserve to be loved,” said the actor.
However, Fana’s vulnerability to bad influences from friends such as Smindlo and Ginger highlights the intricacies of friendships and their impact on human development. The series also stars Siphiwe Mtshali and Mpho Malatsi as Fana’s friends Smindlo and Ginger.
Mabasa-Mokone emphasizes the sobering reality that some friendships can lead people astray, highlighting the critical importance of examining and potentially quitting toxic relationships for the sake of personal well-being.
“However, I’m also a person who believes in second chances, so, before you walk away, assess the friendship and see if you can change your friends for the better. But, if that doesn’t succeed, then the friendship should end,” he said.
Mabasa-Mokone also advised women who are navigating relationships with people like Fana. She pushes for patience and empathy. He highlighted the importance of patience in love and encouraged women to advise their lovers, particularly when assessing the effect of their friends.
“Be patient with your man, and try to advise him on the friends he hangs out with, especially if the friends are anything like Fana’s boys,” he added.
