Pictures
About
Thuso Mbedu is a South African actress, born on July 8, 1991, in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. She first gained recognition for her powerful performances in local television series such as *Is’Thunzi* (2016–2017), where she played the role of Winnie, a teenager with big dreams despite her difficult circumstances. Her portrayal earned her an International Emmy Award nomination for Best Performance by an Actress, making her one of the few South African actors to achieve such an honor.
Mbedu’s breakthrough into global stardom came with her role as Cora in the critically acclaimed Amazon Prime series *The Underground Railroad* (2021), directed by Barry Jenkins. Her portrayal of Cora, an enslaved woman on a quest for freedom, was met with widespread praise from critics and audiences alike, further solidifying her as a rising star in international cinema.
Thuso has also made history as one of the first South African actresses to lead a U.S. television series. In addition to her work in *The Underground Railroad*, she has starred in the 2022 film *The Woman King*, alongside Viola Davis, further showcasing her versatility and ability to take on complex roles.
Thuso Mbedu’s talent, dedication, and impactful performances have made her a global sensation, with a bright future in the international entertainment industry. Her success is a source of pride for South African cinema and a testament to her incredible skill as an actress.
Path to fame
Gained recognition for her role in *Is’Thunzi* and global fame with *The Underground Railroad*.
Also known as
Thuso
BIRTHDAY
July 8, 1991 (age 33)
BORN
Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
ZODIAC SIGN
Cancer
EDUCATION
University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg (Dramatic Arts)
POLITICAL VIEWS
Unknown
Nationality
South African
Ethnicity
African
EYE COLOR
Brown
HAIR COLOR
Black
HEIGHT
5ft 5 (165 cm)
WEIGHT
57 kg (126 lb)
DIET
Unknown
Breasts-Waist-Hips
32-24-34 inches
BRA SIZE
32B
HANDEDNESS
Right-handed
TATTOOS
Unknown
SMOKE
Unknown
NET WORTH
$5 Million
Faith
Unknown
languages spoken
English, Zulu
IQ
Unknown
House
Unknown
Daily routine
Unknown
Sexual Orientation
Heterosexual
Dating history
Unknown
Known For
Known for her Emmy-nominated role in *Is’Thunzi* (2016–2017).
Gained global recognition for her portrayal of Cora in *The Underground Railroad* (2021).
Starred alongside Viola Davis in *The Woman King* (2022).
One of the few South African actors to achieve international success in both television and film.
Recognized for her powerful performances and ability to portray deeply emotional characters.
Made history as one of the first South African actresses to lead a U.S. television series.
Personal Quotes
“I never wanted to be famous, I just wanted to tell stories that matter.”
“The role of Cora in *The Underground Railroad* was the most challenging and rewarding experience of my life.”
“Acting is a way for me to connect with people on a deeper level and help tell stories that resonate.”
“I hope my work inspires others, especially young African women, to follow their dreams.”
“Working with Barry Jenkins on *The Underground Railroad* was an incredible learning experience.”
“I want to be a part of projects that challenge me and push me outside of my comfort zone.”
“Being one of the first South African actresses to lead an international series is an honor, but it’s just the beginning.”
“Storytelling is a powerful tool for change, and I want to be part of that change.”
“I believe in the power of resilience, and that’s what I try to bring to each character I portray.”
“It’s important for me to represent the diversity and beauty of African stories on a global scale.”
Favorite Things
hobbies
Reading, traveling, fitness
pet
Unknown
place to visit
Italy
food
South African cuisine
actor
Viola Davis
book
Unknown
movie
Unknown
On the Web
Official Website
N/A
bookingagentinfo.com
Contact Info | Booking Agent, Manager, Publicist
Reddit.com
Discussion
Wikipedia.com
Biography
IMDB.com
Filmography
Videos
Fun Facts
FACT: Thuso Mbedu was nominated for an International Emmy Award for her role in *Is’Thunzi*.
FACT: She gained international fame for her role as Cora in *The Underground Railroad*.
FACT: Thuso is one of the first South African actresses to lead a U.S. television series.
FACT: She starred alongside Viola Davis in *The Woman King* (2022).
FACT: Thuso graduated with honors in Dramatic Arts from the University of the Witwatersrand.
FACT: She was included in *Forbes Africa’s* “30 Under 30” list in 2018.
FACT: She has a passion for telling African stories on a global platform.
FACT: Mbedu worked with Oscar-winning director Barry Jenkins on *The Underground Railroad*.
FACT: She is fluent in both English and Zulu.
FACT: Thuso Mbedu is considered a rising star in Hollywood with a promising international career ahead.
Career Highlight
Thuso Mbedu’s career highlight came with her starring role as Cora in the critically acclaimed Amazon Prime series The Underground Railroad (2021), directed by Barry Jenkins. Her powerful portrayal of an enslaved woman on a quest for freedom earned her widespread praise and global recognition. This role established her as a major talent in international cinema and made her one of the few South African actors to lead a U.S. television series. Additionally, her role alongside Viola Davis in The Woman King (2022) further solidified her status as a rising star in Hollywood.
