Gaisang K Noge joins The Wife as Season 3 lead

Gaisang K Noge has stepped into the spotlight as the lead for Showmax’s original telenovela The Wife season 3. This season continues to captivate audiences with its gripping narrative inspired by Dudu Busani-Dube’s bestselling novels.

Her debut on set marks a new chapter for the series, with her character, Naledi, stepping into a world already beloved by viewers. Naledi, a doctor, finds herself entangled with Qhawe Zulu, played by Kwenzo Ngcobo. Dubbed ‘the Woolworths of amadoda’ on Twitter, Qhawe’s character is both rich and dangerous, bringing with him a complex and tumultuous past. Naledi will navigate the challenges of loving a man whose life is shadowed by danger, much like previous characters Hlomu and Zandile.

In an exclusive interview, Gaisang shared her experience and insights into joining the popular series.

Gaisang’s initial impressions of working with Kwenzo Ngcobo have been positive. “Today is my first day on set but I’ve obviously interacted with Kwenzo, and the chemistry is there,” she said. “He’s very kind and has been very helpful in assisting me with anything Naledi and Qhawe related. We both care about the story and are looking forward to telling it. So it’s been fun.”

Gaisang’s acting career began professionally in 2018. Since then, she has made her mark on stage, in commercials, and on television. She also plays the character Mampho in e.tv’s House of Zwide, known for her fiery and bold personality.

Reflecting on her casting process for The Wife, Gaisang admitted to feeling nervous. “I don’t think I’ve ever been so nervous casting before; I guess it was because I just loved Naledi so much. She’s sweet and loving but also very reactive. Some people call it crazy, but I think it’s passion. She expresses her love and isn’t afraid to give you her heart.”

Joining a series with an established fan base brings its own set of challenges. “There is a level of pressure because the performers in this story are brilliant, and people love this story so much, so you don’t want to let them down,” she said. However, she finds comfort in Naledi’s role as an outsider in the story. “I’m not like anyone else; I can’t be like anyone else. All I can do is be Naledi. The only shoes I have to fill are hers. Everybody’s unique and perfect in their own way, so I’m going to hold onto that as my guideline.”

She has immersed herself in her role by studying the book and adopting aspects of Naledi’s lifestyle. “I started using nude nail polish because that’s what Naledi does. I’ll eat a certain type of food because she does that. I started copying a lot of the way she lives in my own life,” she explained. Her preparation also includes consulting with the creative director and Kwenzo, as well as watching medical dramas to better understand her character’s profession.

When comparing herself to Naledi, Gaisang noted similarities in their strength and determination. “We’re both very strong. She moves; she carries on. We’re both disciplined. Naledi is stubborn. I can also be stubborn,” she said. However, Gaisang acknowledges significant differences, particularly regarding Naledi’s career and personal choices. “The big difference between her and I is that I did not go to school for seven years to study to be a doctor. I also don’t know if I would stay if I found out my man is a killer or comes from a family of gangsters.”

The Wife season 2 is streaming on Showmax with new episodes dropping every Thursday, with the whole of Season 1 ready to binge-watch.

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