Tendaiishe Chitima Makes Hollywood Debut in Action Thriller “G20”

Zimbabwean actress Tendaiishe Chitima has made her international film debut in the star-studded Hollywood action thriller G20, which features Academy Award-winner Viola Davis in the lead role alongside Anthony Anderson, Marsai Martin, and Ramón Rodríguez.

The high-stakes film follows the dramatic events that unfold when terrorists hijack the G20 Summit. Davis portrays President Sutton, a powerful leader who must draw on her political and military expertise to protect her family, her country, and the world from catastrophe.

Chitima appears as Agent Lane, a role she proudly described as her first major international breakthrough. According to the film’s IMDb listing, her performance marks a significant milestone for the Zimbabwean film industry, as she joins the ranks of a growing list of local talent making waves on the global stage.

“This is my first big role in an international movie, and it was my first time on a big budget set,” Chitima said. “The experience was mind-blowing. I encourage and advise people that nothing is impossible — we can all achieve our goals if we just work a little bit harder.”

Working alongside young American actress and producer Marsai Martin was a particular highlight for Chitima. She shared that meeting Martin and her father, who is also involved in her career, was both inspiring and educational.

“Such a wholesome experience meeting her dad as well, who is an amazing father — I learned so much from him,” Chitima said. “Seeing such a strong and supportive family structure reminded me that to be great, you need a solid, loving, and dependable support system around you.”

She expressed admiration for Martin’s drive and vision, especially as one of the youngest producers in Hollywood. “From our conversations, I’m really keen to see the films and projects Marsai launches into the world,” she said.

Chitima emphasized the importance of education and training in film, urging aspiring Zimbabwean filmmakers and actors to pursue both formal learning and hands-on experience. “We need people with experience. We need to go to school or film schools. Experience is the best teacher,” she said.

She called for more support for the local film industry, pointing to neighboring South Africa as a model for growth and success. “Their movie production is great and has really evolved. We need investors and support to produce the stories people want to see.”

Reflecting on the talent emerging from Zimbabwe, she mentioned the likes of Danai Gurira and Tongai Chirisa as proof of what the nation is capable of achieving. “The fact that we have people like me doing it shows we have the talent. We just need a little push,” she said.

Chitima, who previously starred in Zimbabwe’s first Netflix-acquired film Cook-Off and the conservation-themed Gonarezhou, is optimistic about the future of Zimbabwean film. She believes platforms like G20 help shine a global spotlight on local creatives.

“With Zimbabweans making such great strides in film and media, it’s impossible not to feel inspired and proud. Plaudits to all the creatives that are putting in the work and raising our flag high,” she added.

Chitima also expressed interest in partnering with relevant ministries to identify and nurture talent across Zimbabwe. “We want to create employment and equip talent with skills,” she said.

Her Hollywood debut in G20 not only marks a personal triumph but also signals a rising wave of Zimbabwean excellence in international cinema.