Linda Mtoba chats about landing her first lead role on BET’s ‘Queendom’

Linda Mtoba is beaming with pride after recently bagging her first lead role since making her acting debut in 2016.

The actress plays the role of Ntandokayise Mthombeni in BET Africa's new daily drama Queendom,  which shows the strength, resilience and power of women who shape their own destinies while exploring themes of cultural heritage, tradition, fate, ancestry, power struggles, identity and survival.

"Time will always be the truth-teller of destiny. It's momentous, and it feels larger than me. I have moments where I feel unworthy of it, and moments where I feel deserving of it. It's beautiful," Linda told TshisaLIVE. 

"I am thrilled to be part of Queendom, a story that goes beyond the ordinary and delves into the complexities of love, destiny and the power within.

"Ntando is not just a character. She's a symbol of the strength all African women possess. In her story, we witness the collision of two worlds, the power of destiny and the rise of a queen. I can't wait for viewers to embark on this journey with us."

Moving from being a supporting actress to playing lead means she's had to push herself a bit more, Linda said. 

"The time is now. I always describe my career as a never-ending love story. I went to one audition and it's been a love story ever since, with its highs and lows. Love will always force you to try again and give it your best."

With the show tapping into spirituality as well, Linda said she's had to honour her ancestors in her craft so they distinguish her from her character. 

"I'm a very spiritual person. There are moments where Ntandokayise will have scenes that are very heavy. When I get home I get into water with salt and pray some of the things away. There are scenes where we tap into actual ancestry stuff, like lighting candles, and I know when you light a candle you're supposed to speak to the ancestors first and tell them that it's not me doing it, so I think having that understanding helps. 

"I think it's important to have a balance of your cultural beliefs and spiritual beliefs, so you can disassociate yourself from it."