Obed Baloyi's story: from street vendor to SAFTA-winning actor
Obed Baloyi stands as a shining beacon in the South African entertainment industry, known for his compelling performances that easily bridge theatre and television. He has carved an indelible mark through iconic roles such as Tsutsuma in Ga Re Dumele, and more recently, as Mzamani Rivombo on Muvhango.
Source: Facebook
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Key takeaways
- Obed helped his mother sell fruits and vegetables on the streets when he was young.
- He formed the Mangava Drama Group in 1996 and wrote plays such as Ga Mchangani and Via Soweto.
- He made his television debut in 2000 but gained prominence as Tsutsuma in the sitcom Ga Re Dumele, a role he played for six seasons from 2010 to 2019.
Obed Baloyi's profile summary
| Full name | Obed Baloyi |
| Gender | Male |
| Date of birth | 1970 |
| Age | 55 years old (as of 2025) |
| Place of birth | Diepkloof, Gauteng, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| Ethnicity | Tsonga |
| Relationship status | Married |
| Children | Four |
| Education | Shingwezi High School and Donaldson Orlando Cultural Club |
| Profession | Actor and playwright |
A look at Obed Baloyi's age and early life
Obed Baloyi, 55 years old as of 2025, was born in Diepkloof, Gauteng, South Africa, in 1970. He belongs to the Tsonga ethnic group and holds South African nationality. The prominent actor also speaks Xitsonga natively and English, as well as Zulu and SeSotho.
Obed talked about his childhood experience in an interview with News24. The award-winning actor revealed,
I helped my mother to sell fruits and vegetables on the streets, just for me to get a better life and education. I also sold sweets at school just to bring money that will put bread on the table.
Source: Original
Education
Baloyi went to Shingwezi High School in Malamulele, where he first got involved in a drama production group. He later took acting classes at the Donaldson Orlando Cultural Club (DOCC) under the mentorship of notable actors such as Darlington Michaels.
Exploring Obed Baloyi's acting career
Obed began acting in high school around 1987, but formally entered the theatre scene in 1996, when he formed the Mangava Drama Group. As a playwright, he wrote plays such as Ga-Mchangani and Via Soweto, which were staged at several South African theatre festivals.
Movies and TV shows
Baloy transitioned to television in 2000, debuting on the educational youth series Soul Buddyz. However, his breakthrough was on the sitcom Ga Re Dumele. Obed Baloyi played Tsutsuma for six seasons from 2010 to 2019.
His performance in this role earned him two nominations for Best Actor in a TV Comedy at the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTA), winning in 2014. He has since appeared in over 17 films and TV shows. Some of Obed Baloyi's movies and TV shows include:
- 2013: Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom
- 2016: The Last Face
- 2015: Ga Re Dumele
- 2024: Lobola Man
- 2023: Shaka iLembe
- 2019: Iwashi
Source: Instagram
What is Ringo's real name in DiepCity?
Ringo's real name in the popular TV show DiepCity is Obed Baloyi. The show was cancelled in 2023.
Obed Baloyi's personal life
Details about Obed Baloyi's spouse or wife are not publicly documented. However, according to sources, he has been married twice. Additionally, the actor refers to his on-screen sweetheart, Khelina, as his wife.
During a memorial service for Lebohang Mpyana held at Joburg Theatre, the actor candidly disclosed his strong bond with the DiepCity co-star. He said,
Whenever I speak with Khelina over the phone she would say ‘I love you baby’ and I would say ‘I love you sweetheart’ something which I don’t do with my wife,
Source: Instagram
Does Obed Baloyi have children?
Baloyi has four children. Two are from his first marriage, while he welcomed his other two children alongside his second wife.
Trivia
- Obed appeared in the crime drama DiepCity as Ringo, earning him a Best Supporting Actor nomination in a Telenovela at the SAFTAs.
- In early 2025, he was cast as Mzamani Rivombo in the SABC2 Tshivenda soapie Muvhango after multiple unsuccessful auditions.
Conclusion
Across a career spanning nearly three decades, Obed Baloyi's dedication to the craft of acting and storytelling remains unwavering. From his roots in theatre with the Mangava Drama Group, the legendary actor exemplifies a career driven by talent and hard work. His award-winning television appearances further highlight his dedication and skill.
READ MORE: Sibonile Ngubane's biography
Briefly.co.za shared an article on Sibonile Ngubane, a veteran South African actor best known for his role as Mbovu in Isibaya. He debuted his acting career in the 1990s, mainly performing in theatre productions.
The legendary South African actor has also made a name in the music industry as a percussionist, often performing with renowned artists like Ringo Madlingozi and Mbongeni Ngema.
Proofreading by Kelly Lippke, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.
Source: Briefly News
