Zozibini Tunzi steps into first role in ‘Bad Influencer’

FORMER Miss South Africa and Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi takes her first major step into acting with the new local series Bad Influencer, currently streaming on Netflix.

- ALYSSIA BIRJALAL

ZOZIBINI Tunzi as Naomi in Bad Influencer. | Supplied

(Supplied)

Known for her impactful presence on stage and in the world of pageantry, Tunzi’s transition to acting is both exciting and inspiring for many young artists.

Set in Johannesburg, Bad Influencer is a seven-part series that dives deep into the glitzy world of online fame while showcasing the stark realities of life.

At the heart of this gripping story, which premiered on Netflix on Friday are two women, BK and Pinky.

BK, played by Jo-Anne Reyneke, is a street-smart single mother and Pinky, portrayed by Cindy Mahlangu, is a rising social media influencer. Tunzi joins the cast as Naomi.

BK and Pinky descend into Joburg’s counterfeit economy, selling fake luxury handbags. Their scheme draws the attention of Bra Alex (Vincent Mahl-ape) and Jobs “Flames” Jiyane (Hamilton Dlamini), notorious criminals in a counterfeiting syndicate, as well as law enforcement.

Caught between criminals and cops, the unlikely duo must outfox both to stay out of jail, survive, and thrive.

Tunzi shares her enthusiasm about stepping into the role of Naomi, saying: “I’ve aways been a creative, artistic person who enjoyed performance at school ... I've always loved putting on some kind of performance ...

“With acting, it’s not something I’ve done growing up, but it’s something I became interested in as soon as I found myself in the entertainment space. It’s become a newfound passion, more especially when I did The Woman King. It was a very small role, but it is one of the places that truly ignited my passion. I knew that I had to be back in this space again, so when this opportunity came by, I could not have been happier,” said Tunzi.

She described Naomi as the villain of the show - mean, cold, yet fabulously charismatic.