In the latest episode, the contestants were given a memory class by top memory coach, James Jooste, before readying for the main ‘theatre’ challenge. While Alexander Eliab Khainga and Lorraine Wangui Gakuo put on their best performances, Sibeko struggled to impress the judges and Lombard forgot some of his lines, leaving them in the bottom two.

Now currently preparing for acting workshops while continuing to play soccer, Sibeko has been inspired by his appearance on Top Actor Africa to continue his acting endeavours, while perhaps venturing into radio and television presenting.

“I am sad to leave the show as I still had a lot to bring to the table. The Top Actor Africa platform has aided in developing my brand as a newcomer in the industry. I am grateful that I was given the chance to showcase my potential in Africa alongside other talented contestants,” said Sibeko.

Lombard, who is currently working on securing auditions, joined the Top Actor cast despite a lack of formal training. He has previously landed numerous roles as an extra and featured extra and even had a small role in Resident Evil.

Lombard commented, “Being a Top Actor Africa contestant showed me that I can be anything I strive to be in the entertainment industry. I look forward to the future and I plan to work hard in getting my talent exposed. Being eliminated was hard as I feel I still have a lot to offer. I am thankful to BET and Top Actor Africa for this opportunity, but I have learned so much, and I am now prepared to conquer the world”.

Top Actor Africa, airs every Tuesday on BET at 19:30 and aims to fast-track aspiring actors into the highly competitive acting industry. The prize package includes $10 000, international representation and access to Hollywood auditions.

Hosted by South African film and television star Zikhona Sodlaka (Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, Generations), Top Actor Africa sees the best up and coming actors on the continent battle it out on camera in front of big industry names from Hollywood and South Africa.

The remaining nine hopefuls still in the running for the Top Actor Africa title are: Shamilla Miller (South Africa), Farrell Drew (South Africa), Marilyn Sekgapane (South Africa), Jesse Suntele (South Africa) Lorraine Wangui Gakuo (Kenya), Alex Khayo (Kenya), Tobechi Nneji (Nigeria), Uriel Oputa (Nigeria) and Ifeanyi Dike (Nigeria).

For a chance to catch up with Sibeko and Lombard’s experience on Top Actor Africa tune in to Kaya Central with Mo-G on Wednesday, 23 March at 16:45 and also on TransAfrica Radio on Wednesday, 23 March at Noon.

Tune in to episode five of Top Actor Africa on BET, Tuesday, 29 March at 19:30 where Nigerian celebrity power couple Osas Ajibade and Gbenro Ajibade serve as guest judges. The contestants are tasked with immersion and their main challenge is performing the iconic Shakespeare monologues to a poolside full of distracted audience members.

For more information visit www.betafrica.tv. Alternatively, connect with them on Facebook, Twitter or on Instagram using the #TopActorAfrica hashtag.