Lerato Nxumalo Biography
Lerato Nxumalo is a celebrated South African actress, best recognized for her role as the dedicated and charismatic medical intern, Dr. Luthuli, on Durban Gen. Currently, she portrays Mpumi Cele on Lingashoni and Phakamile, Nqobile’s sister on Scandal. This article provides a comprehensive look into her life and career.
Early Life
Born on February 9th, 1999, Lerato Nxumalo was raised in the KwaMashu neighborhood of Durban, located in South Africa’s KwaZulu Natal Province. She has eight siblings – seven girls and one boy, from her stepmother. Despite her parents being Zulu, it was her late grandmother, her father’s mother, who gave her a Sotho name. When her mother was unable to give her the intended name for Nompumelelo, she gave it to Lerato’s younger sister.
Education
Lerato attended Northland Girls High in Durban. She studied theatrical arts from eighth grade to twelfth grade before enrolling at Witswaterstand University in Johannesburg to pursue film and television.
Interestingly, Lerato initially aspired to be an accountant, a career choice influenced by her friend. However, she had no understanding of what an accountant did. It wasn’t until she was in eighth grade that she realized her true passion lay in acting.
Acting Career
Before her stint on Durban General, Lerato made several television appearances. She played supporting roles on Isthembiso and Madume, and also in the feature film Trapped.
She also appeared in television commercials, including the lead role in the 2019 Aero campaign and the 2017 Edgars Women’s Day campaign. She auditioned for the 2020 season of the television drama Durban Gen after receiving a notification from her acting agency, Star Quality Management agency.
During the lockdown, she submitted a self-tape to Durban Gen and was soon invited for an audition. Before being selected for the role of Ndabezinhle Lithuli, she auditioned for several roles. She later left Durban Gen to play Mpumi Cele in the 1Magic series Lingashoni.
Currently, she is working alongside actor Patrick Mofokeng, who plays Mr. Cele, her on-screen father.
Also read: Andile Sithole Biography: Age, Education, Career, Wife & More
Personal Life
Lerato is reportedly in a relationship with a Swedish man. However, details about their relationship, such as its duration and how they met, remain unknown.
Net Worth
As Durban Gen continues to gain popularity, its cast, including Lerato, is undoubtedly earning a substantial income. The newcomer in the entertainment industry is currently worth R1.7 million, and this is just the beginning of her journey.