Chris Jaftha a triple threat - model, TV host, and actor. He started in South African theater before hitting the small screen, from glitzy shows like Top Billing to horror flicks like Netflix's Heks. It's always exciting to see someone with such a diverse skill set making waves in the entertainment industry. We caught up with Chris to hear all about his crazy journey in the entertainment biz.

You've had quite the diverse career - dancing, rapping, acting, presenting. What's your overall experience been like in the entertainment industry?

It's been a wild ride, and many people don't make it in this industry because they're too self-centered - it's all about fame, money, and superficial desires for them. But for me, this calling chose me. I had that creative spark from a young age, always the class clown much to my mom's chagrin. Funnily enough, I studied fine art at the national school of arts, not acting or dance which became my eventual fields. The innate desire to create and perform was always there, an itch I couldn't escape.

With your wide range of experiences, have you found one career or passion that really clicks for you? Or do you consider yourself more of an all-around talent skilled in many areas?

I'm a multi-talented person who loves being a "jack of all trades." I've explored dance, theater, music, and presenting, but my true passion is film and evoking emotions in audiences. I value all forms of artistic expression and emphasize authenticity - embracing your true self without inhibitions. Criticism happens, but it's important to stay true to yourself instead of changing to please others. My family encouraged me to pursue diverse interests, shaping my multifaceted career driven by passion for the arts.

You mentioned longevity earlier. In this super competitive industry, with new talent constantly emerging, how do you stay relevant and keep reinventing yourself?

its important to focus on self-improvement and personal growth rather than competing with others. I attribute their success to maintaining positive relationships, professionalism, and respect towards others in the industry. The key values such as discipline, honesty, and being a team player, which have helped me stay relevant and irreplaceable. I believe that by continually working on oneself, taking responsibility, and investing in personal well-being (mental, spiritual, and physical), one can become truly irreplaceable, regardless of external circumstances or setbacks. MY approach is grounded in MY  Christian faith and guided by the Holy Spirit, which has opened doors and connected them with the right people.

So you mentioned the ups and downs in show biz. If you had a magic wand to wave and make some changes, what would you want to see different in the industry?

We need better protection and compensation for artists and workers in the entertainment industry. The arts and media sector generated a massive $74.4 billion between 2016-2018 in South Africa. But artists often face delayed payments, no royalties, and little support during crises like COVID-19, which hit Black artists especially hard.

I'm calling for the Copyright Amendment Bill and Performance Protection Amendment Bill to be passed. These would ensure artists get paid royalties for their work. It's also crucial that artists unite, because collective action amplifies their voices for positive change in the industry. Overall, we need fair treatment, legal protection, and recognition of the value artists bring to the e

What's in store for the days ahead? 

I'm juggling a few side projects, but I prefer not to spill the beans until everything's locked and loaded. Once all the pieces are in place, you'll be the first to know.