Thuso Mbedu is a South African actress known for her outstanding performances on both stage and screen. She was born on 8 July 1991 in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Thuso Mbedu grew up in a small village in the KwaZulu-Natal province, where she discovered her love for acting at a young age. She attended the University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, where she studied Physical Theatre and Performing Arts Management.

Mbedu made her professional acting debut in 2014, starring in the Mzansi Magic drama series “Is’thunzi”. Her portrayal of a young woman struggling to achieve her dreams in post-apartheid South Africa earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. The role also earned her two International Emmy Award nominations for Best Performance by an Actress.

In addition to her work on television, Mbedu has also made a name for herself on stage. She has appeared in productions such as “The Soil Beneath Our Feet” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”. Her performances have been praised for their depth and emotional complexity.

Mbedu’s talent and hard work have earned her numerous awards and nominations, including the Golden Horn Award for Best Actress in a TV Drama and the South African Film and Television Award for Best Actress in a TV Drama. She has also been named one of Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 in the Entertainment category.

In 2021, Mbedu landed her first major Hollywood role, playing the lead in the Amazon Prime Video series “The Underground Railroad”. Her portrayal of Cora, a young woman escaping slavery in the 19th century, has been praised for its emotional depth and nuance.

Outside of her acting career, Mbedu is a passionate advocate for mental health and has spoken openly about her own struggles with depression and anxiety. She uses her platform to raise awareness and promote mental health resources in South Africa.

In conclusion, Thuso Mbedu is a talented and accomplished actress who has made a significant impact on the entertainment industry in South Africa and beyond. Her work on stage and screen has been praised for its emotional depth and complexity, and she continues to inspire audiences with her powerful performances.