Lerato Nxumalo Faces Backlash After Revealing Why She Rejected Netflix’s The Polygamist Role
South African actress Lerato Nxumalo has found herself at the centre of another social media storm after revealing why she turned down a role in Netflix’s hit drama The Polygamist. Her explanation has divided opinion, with many questioning whether audiences still struggle to separate fiction from reality, while others believe she made a personal decision that deserved respect.
The former Durban Gen and Genesis star recently disclosed that she was offered a supporting role in the popular Netflix series but chose not to accept it because she feared the reaction from viewers.
According to Nxumalo, the character was one of Jonasi Gomora’s girlfriends, a role connected to a storyline involving HIV transmission. Jonasi Gomora is portrayed by actor Sdumo Mtshali.
Speaking about her decision, the 27 year old Durban born actress explained that she received the offer while she was in Sweden.
“I was offered this role while I was in Sweden. It was not one of the main characters. This girl was going to arrive and infect someone with HIV. I said, ‘No way, I am scared.’ Imagine people calling out my name, saying I am the one who infected someone with HIV.”
Her comments quickly gained traction online, sparking intense debate across social media, particularly on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Many users criticised the actress, arguing that viewers are generally capable of distinguishing between actors and the fictional characters they portray. Others questioned why she continues discussing a role she ultimately declined.
Some social media users also pointed to her previous performances, including her portrayal of the outspoken character Phakamile in Scandal!, noting that she did not face widespread public hostility over that role.
Others accused Nxumalo of seeking attention by revisiting the story, while some defended her right to make career decisions based on her own comfort and concerns.
Not the First Time Lerato Nxumalo Has Sparked Debate
This is not the first occasion on which Nxumalo’s public remarks have generated controversy.
She previously attracted criticism after claiming that she had chosen to date a foreign white man because, in her view, many South African men pursue “anything in a skirt” and are overly focused on sex.
Following the backlash, the actress addressed the criticism on her vlog, saying she believed people enjoyed making fun of her whenever she shared her opinions.
A Growing Television Career
Despite the criticism surrounding her comments, Nxumalo remains one of South Africa’s recognised young television actresses.
Over the years, she has appeared in several popular productions, including:
- Genesis as Olwethu Hlophe
- Durban Gen as Dr Ndabezinhle Luthuli
- Scandal! as Phakamile
- Lingashoni as Mpumi Cele
- Bad Influencer as Barbie
Her latest comments have once again placed her in the spotlight, highlighting the ongoing debate over how closely audiences connect actors with the characters they play. While some believe performers should never be judged for fictional roles, others understand why certain storylines may carry personal or professional concerns for the actors involved.
