“We haven’t had a legal show in South Africa for a while now.” Siya Sepotokele on Law, Love and Betrayal

Siya Sepotokele is a familiar face to South African television audiences, known for his compelling roles in The River, Impilo: The Scam, Grassroots, and The Republic. Now, he is back on screens in Law, Love and Betrayal, a legal drama where he takes on the character of Thabo, starring alongside a stellar cast, including Dineo Rasedile, Pearl Modiadie, Nimrod Nkosi, and Anelisa Phewa.

In an exclusive interview with Xabiso Ngqabe, Sepotokele opened up about his latest role, his experience on the show, and why Law, Love and Betrayal is unlike anything we’ve seen in South Africa in recent years.

Tell us about your character, Thabo.

“Thabo is Gugu’s childhood sweetheart, and they’ve been together for what feels like forever. They started off as best friends and gradually became lovers. Throughout everything—from their school days to her professional career—he’s been her rock. But despite being a good guy, he often finds himself making the wrong decisions, even when he means well.”

Sepotokele explains

How was your chemistry audition with Gugu?

Siya recalls how serendipity led him to the role.

“I had no idea about the show at first. I was actually just accompanying a friend to the auditions. He turned out to be too young for the role, and they asked me to try out instead. I initially auditioned for James, but then I got a callback to do a chemistry test for Thabo.

“When I did the chemistry test with Dineo Rasedile (who plays Gugu), it was clear she was perfect for the role. Everything just flowed between us. Right time, right place.”

Thabo is described as a good guy who tends to make the wrong decisions for the right reasons. Could you relate to him?

Sepotokele admits that he sees some of himself in Thabo.

“I definitely relate. One of my flaws is that I tend to put others before myself. Like, I’d give someone my last few bucks so they can get to work and figure out my own situation later. Thabo’s like that. He wants to help everyone, even if it means sacrificing himself. It’s this deep sense of duty that I connect with, and it helped me really understand the character.”

What do you think men in similar situations can learn from Thabo’s journey?

“People can learn from his mistakes. Thabo has pure intentions, but sometimes he needs to step back and think before acting. There’s always pressure—whether it’s about how you look, how much you earn, or what car you drive. You have to find peace within yourself and not overcompensate. Thabo tries so hard to be everything, and that’s where he stumbles. Men can learn from him to be real and comfortable in their own skin, without trying to be more than who they are.”

Siya says

What excites you most about Law, Love and Betrayal?

Sepotokele shares his enthusiasm for the show, highlighting the unique angle it brings to South African television.

“We haven’t had a legal show in South Africa for a while now. Sure, there have been dramas where law is part of the storyline, but in Law, Love and Betrayal, the courtroom is the heart of everything. We spend a lot of time with full-on cases being argued in court. The legal drama is intense, and the writing is beautiful. Seeing James and Gugu argue cases is powerful stuff! The courtroom scenes are going to blow audiences away.”

he points out

About Law, Love and Betrayal

The 13-episode legal drama, Law, Love and Betrayal, explores the intertwining lives of its characters through legal battles, love, and betrayal. Set between Thembisa and Sandton, the show delves deep into both personal and professional conflicts, with law serving as the backdrop for gripping stories. Directed by a team of award-winning creatives, including Nthabiseng Tau, Nthabiseng Mokoena, and Christo Davids, the series is produced by Izwi Multimedia and is currently streaming on Showmax, with new episodes released every Thursday.