Tina Jaxa steps into power in Mpondoland

Tina Jaxa is a screen icon whose name has long been synonymous with range. Over a career spanning more than two decades, she has breathed life into an extraordinary spectrum of characters, each crafted with her signature authenticity and emotional richness.

This year alone, she’s been unstoppable: captivating audiences as Nomvelo in Black Gold on BET, bringing fire to Inimba as Nomfundiso, and now commanding Sunday prime time in the bold, genre-bending African fantasy series Mpondoland.

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The series centres on Mkhondwana, played by Thembekile Komani,who must choose between pursuing his personal ambition and following tradition. Jaxa enters this world as Pele-Pele, a ruthless outsider who threatens to disrupt the peace in Mkhondwana’s sacred homeland, KwaKhonjwayo.

With Mpondoland having just premiered, Tina Jaxa opens up about embracing Pele-Pele, her connection to Amapondo culture, and what makes this project unlike anything she’s done before.

What makes Mpondoland stand out from the other projects you’ve been part of? 

It’s Pele-Pele, the character who truly humbled me. Before we started filming, I had never cried this much, both before and after each scene. My team—including the armorers, stunts coordinator, and directors—held my hand through it all, and I’m so grateful. I took this role to heart. My preparation for the character was intense; I threw myself into it completely, and how I prepared is a story for another time. 

What new insights did you gain about Amapondo culture? 

I’m part of the uXesibe clan by totem, the younger brother to uMpondo and Mpondomise. Due to family feuds, the brothers went their separate ways to establish their own kingdoms. This resonated deeply with me. I wish I could’ve learned more from the wise elders in my village about how these divisions came to be and the chaos that followed. 

What did you value most about the filming locations chosen for Mpondoland? 

The majestic animals we encountered up close and the breathtaking beauty of the land were incredible. The landscapes perfectly reflect the story’s essence. 

Pele-Pele presents a stern, and demanding character. Can you tell us more about her?

Pele-Pele is my favorite kind of soldier: determined, brave, and strong. She’s unafraid to fight for what she believes in. While she may seem ordinary at first glance, she’s far from it. Pele-Pele grew up with two angels to care for, and the one she fed the most is who she became. She’s a warrior, and her faith in the face of war is something I admire.

Despite her darker side, is there anything about Pele-Pele that you admire?

What I admire most is her unwavering belief in gods and heroes (particularly her grandfather). She manipulates situations to get the desired outcome, which is something I find fascinating. Pele-pele is driven by the need to win, not just for herself but for her grandfather. While she may seem lacking in humanity, we see a different side of her when she’s a mother to her son. 

I also admire her ability to balance life and death. She’s learned to navigate both, and her skill in battle is rooted in deep vengeance. She’ll stop at nothing to achieve her goals, even if it means leaving a path of destruction. 

What reminded you of your love for acting while filming Mpondoland? 

It’s the way each character was developed and how the story escalates and de-escalates. The chemistry among the cast, the way we all showed up for the production, and the seamless integration of the entire team made me appreciate the work even more. We didn’t just act; we lived and breathed our roles. We were part of something much bigger than ourselves. 

Beyond acting, what other roles have you taken within the Film & TV industry? 

I’ve been working as a casting director, performance coach, and intimacy coordinator. 

If you had to sum up Mpondoland in three words, what would they be? 

Brave, unapologetic, and a must-see show. 

Watch Mpondoland every Sunday at 8PM on Mzansi Magic, Channel 161.