Ayanda Daweti on Soft Life and playing Siv Makhaza

Ayanda Daweti, well-known for his roles in Scandal! and Gomora, steps into the role of Siv Makhaza in the Showmax Original drama, Soft Life. The drama series follows the emotional journey of Siv’s girlfriend, Owami (played by Zizipho Buti), who is drawn into the secretive world of high-society companionship to pay for her mother’s mounting medical bills. Fearful of losing everything she holds dear, Owami struggles to keep her dual life a secret. 
 
We caught up with Ayanda to talk about his character, the show and what viewers can expect from it.
 
Who is Siv Makhaza?
Ayanda describes Siv as a passionate and driven young man. “Siv Makhaza is a young, passionate, and driven man from an academic family. His mother is a lawyer, and he’s following in her footsteps. His upbringing has shaped him into a family-oriented individual with clear goals,” Ayanda explains.

Although Siv and Owami come from very different backgrounds, he is determined to build a future with her. “At 27, he’s already thinking about building a life with the woman he loves, Owami, who comes from a completely different world—she’s a township girl from eThembisa, while he comes from a well-off family. Siv is fixated on his dream of building a life with Owami, despite their differences, and that determination defines much of his journey,” Ayanda shares.

Strengths and weaknesses
Siv is a well-rounded character, but like anyone, he has both strengths and weaknesses. Ayanda points out one of Siv’s weaknesses: his naivety. “He trusts people easily and needs to see evidence with his own eyes before believing anything negative about them.”
 
On the other hand, his strength lies in his caring and supportive nature. Ayanda says, “He’s someone Owami can count on to be there when it matters.”
 
Advice for Siv
As a friend of Siv, Ayanda would offer him some relationship advice. “As a close friend, I’d avoid coming from a place of judgement. Understanding the intricacies of his relationship with Owami would be key. Knowing her background and the circumstances influencing her choices, I’d encourage Siv to give her a second chance. I’d remind him that relationships are about navigating challenges together and affirm that I’d support him no matter what they face.”

South African men and honest conversations about relationships
Ayanda also reflects on a broader question: whether South African men are ready for honest conversations about relationships with women like Owami, who are involved in unconventional professions. “I believe we’re slowly moving toward that point. It’s rare to find someone perfect, and the pressures of social media often push people into situations where they chase money or try to keep up with trends.” He adds, “However, I see men gradually opening up to discussing these complexities and embracing more honest conversations about such relationships.”

A masterclass with Nambitha Mpumlwana
One of the highlights of Ayanda’s time on Soft Life has been working with veteran actress Nambitha Mpumlwana, who plays Siv’s mother, Judge Iris Makhaza. Ayanda speaks highly of Nambitha, who he describes as an actor he’s always admired. “Working with Mam’ Nambitha was like attending a masterclass every day. Her return to the spotlight in this role is something special, and I can’t wait for audiences to see the magic we’ve created together,” Ayanda shares. 

He recalls one key piece of advice Nambitha gave him: “One lesson that stood out was her advice to slow down, both in speech and in presence. She emphasised the importance of being in the moment, not just acting but being, and it made a huge difference on screen.”

Why should people watch Soft Life?
As for why viewers should tune in to Soft Life, Ayanda is clear. “Soft Life reflects the realities of our times. It’s a story about modern-day aspirations, challenges, and relationships, resonating with both the younger generation and the elders. It’s not just a show—it’s a conversation starter, packed with relatable moments while remaining thoroughly entertaining.” 

Soft Life is now streaming on Showmax with new episodes dropping every Monday.

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