Born on March 22, 1972, in Umlazi, KwaZulu-Natal, Baby Cele-Maloka is a renowned South African actress known for her roles in TV series like Backstage and Uzalo. She has also appeared in stage productions such as Sarafina! and has won numerous awards for her performances.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Baby Cele-Maloka |
| Date of Birth | March 22, 1972 |
| Place of Birth | Umlazi, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| Spouse | Thabo Maloka (married 2017; divorced) |
| Children | Two (Yolisa and Thando) |
| Occupations | Actress, Voice Over Artist |
| Net Worth | $1 million |
Early Life and Education
Born on March 22, 1972, in Umlazi, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, Baby Cele-Maloka was brought up in a lively community that sparked her love for the arts.
She pursued acting education, which paved the way for her thriving career in TV and theater. Engaging in local productions from a young age honed her skills, shaping her into the well-known actress she is today in South Africa.
Career
Baby Cele-Maloka is a celebrated South African actress known for her versatile roles in television and theater. She gained prominence for her portrayal of Katlego Rathebe on the e.tv soap opera Backstage, where she worked for eight years.
Cele has since appeared in various notable series, including My Perfect Family, Inkaba, and Uzalo, where she plays Gabisile Mdletshe.
Her recent works include roles in Blood & Water (2020-2024) as Minister Dlamini, Miseducation (2023) as Brenda Hadebe, and Shaka iLembe (2023) as Mabhamba.
Cele’s contributions to both stage and screen continue to earn her acclaim in the South African entertainment industry
Personal Life
Baby Cele-Maloka has navigated multiple marriages and motherhood, with her latest union to businessman Thabo Maloka ending in divorce.
She has been candid about her healing journey post-divorce, embracing her status as a single woman open to new relationships. Additionally, Cele practices as a traditional healer, known as a sangoma.
As a mother of two, she keeps details about her children private while emphasizing personal growth and questioning traditional views on monogamy gained from her relationship experiences.
Baby Cele Net Worth
Baby Cele-Maloka’s current net worth is estimated to be around 4 million rands (approximately $220,000), which she has accumulated through her successful career as an actress and voice-over artist in South Africa.
Filmography
Baby Cele-Maloka’s filmography includes a diverse range of roles across television and film. Here are some notable works:
Television Series
- Backstage (2000-2008) – Katlego Rathebe
- My Perfect Family (2011-2013) – Portia Nkosi
- Inkaba (2012-2013) – Slindile Dludlu
- Zabalaza (2013-2016) – Gasta Cele
- Uzalo (2018-present) – Gabisile Mdletshe
- Blood & Water (2020-2024) – Minister Dlamini
- Shaka iLembe (2023) – Mabhamba
- Miseducation (2023) – Brenda Hadebe
Films
- The Lion King (1994) – Soundtrack performer (“Circle of Life”)
- Jump the Gun (1997) – Gugu
Cele has also appeared in various stage productions, including Sarafina! and Shreds & Dreams.
Awards and Nominations
Baby Cele-Maloka has received several awards and nominations throughout her career, reflecting her talent and impact in the South African entertainment industry. Here are some notable accolades:
Awards
- Vita Awards: Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role for The Game (Won)
- All Africa Film Awards: Most Promising Newcomer for Jump the Gun (Won)
- SAFTA (South African Film and Television Awards):
- Golden Horn Award for Best Supporting Actress in a TV Soap for Backstage (Nominated)
- Golden Horn Award for Best Actress in a TV Comedy for My Perfect Family (Nominated)
- Golden Horn Award for Best Actress for Uzalo (Pending)
Cele’s contributions to film and television continue to be recognized, with her recent nomination at the African Emerging Filmmakers Awards further highlighting her ongoing relevance in the industry.
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