Chrispen Nyathi Urges Formal Training for Actors and Sparks Debate in African Film Industry

South Africa-based Zimbabwean actor Chrispen Nyathi, acclaimed for his role as Pastor Charleston in Mzansi Magic’s DiepCity, has delivered a strong message to fellow performers: talent alone is not enough to succeed in acting.

Nyathi, who won the Outstanding Supporting Actor award at the 2024 Royalty Soapie Awards, admitted he lacks formal training. Sharing images from a recent film set on Facebook, he wrote, “I know many of you will disagree, but your acting talent won’t serve you adequately without some form of schooling or training. I speak from experience as an actor who isn’t formally trained. I recommend school or intensive training because I recognise where I fall short, and had I received that level of training, I wouldn’t be lacking in those areas today.”

He highlighted the contrast between African film industries and Hollywood, stating, “There’s a reason why Hollywood is so successful and we are not. Ninety percent of actors in Hollywood hold qualifications in performance; they’ve studied the business and mastered the craft. That’s why their performances are unbelievably brilliant. Compare the number of formally trained actors in Hollywood to those in South Africa or Africa, and the difference is clear.”

Nyathi’s remarks sparked debate online. Some followers questioned the Hollywood comparison. Lesley Nkosi noted, “If education and training were the key factors, then only Americans would be good filmmakers, which clearly isn’t true. Hollywood thrives because of infrastructure, budgets, investors and global distribution networks built alongside America’s economic and cultural dominance.” Nkosi added that many top Hollywood directors never attended film school, achieving success through creativity and access to resources rather than academic qualifications. African filmmakers often face limited funding, inadequate equipment, and restricted international reach.

Others argued that practical experience can outweigh formal education. Nhlanhla Ngwane said, “I agree with you, but I don’t agree. Acting needs experience. You can get certificates at school, but without real experience, you won’t get far. Experience is what teaches you the craft.”

Despite the pushback, Nyathi remains firm in his belief. He continues to work with top acting coaches to refine his skills. In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, he explained, “Talent alone is not enough. The post was meant to challenge the misconception that acting is ‘easy,’ that all you need is talent. That mindset undermines the work we do. I still take lessons from private coaches. Even after international recognition, I continue to train. It’s about putting in the work to be the best you can be.”

Supporters of Nyathi’s view emphasise the need for expanded arts education in Africa. They argue that the outdated belief that art or sport is “not real work” must be discarded. Advocates call for accessible and affordable arts colleges to ensure talented individuals are not excluded due to financial constraints, enabling the full potential of creative industries to be realised.

Nyathi’s message underlines a growing conversation in African film circles: combining talent with structured training and continuous learning can elevate performance standards and ensure sustainability in the competitive entertainment industry.