We sat down with Connie Chiume for an emotional interview moments after wrapping up her final episode on Rhythm City.
Still dressed in her hospital gown and seated in the ICU ward where Kete took her final breath, we spoke to Connie about her nine years as Mamokete Khuse on Rhythm City.
Connie expressed that from the very first day she had a strong connection to the character. “I could relate to Mamokete, especially as a mother.” And she formed a particularly deep bond with her co-stars: “We have a wonderful team. From the people who are no longer here, to those who are still with us and those who joined us later.”
Even after shooting her final scene on the show, Connie still exudes poise and humility and says: “In the old school we were taught to respect our jobs and to respect the people we work with.” And she hopes that the professional way in which she conducted herself will stick with the younger actors.
She explained that the learning experience on the show was a two-way street. “The younger generations who graduated from drama schools come with new ideas. They are learning from us, and we are learning from them.”
When asked about her best moments on the show, the actress got extremely emotional and struggled to hold back the tears. “There were moments of joy and moments of sadness on this journey. This is a very hard and emotional moment. To part with the family that has been with me for the last nine years… I’m not going to lie and say I feel joy.”
“I am weak when it comes to parting with people. I can’t take it,” she explained, trying to keep her feelings under control. But it’s not all sorrow for Connie, “there are many opportunities out there and many things that I am intending to do.”
The storyline that she enjoyed portraying the most was when Mamokete was torn between Jacob and Kop. But ultimately her character decided to stay with her husband. “The purpose of the story line was to show the viewers that there’s still a family with morals, who support each other. I hope that’s the message we have imparted to our viewers.”
“The stories were intriguing and challenging. I woke up in the morning looking forward to doing my scenes.”
Connie said that she will miss everyone on set, especially her TV family Reneilwe (Amo Chidi), Kop (Setlhabi Taunyane) and Fats (Mpho Molepo).
She expressed great appreciation to the fans who supported her during her years on Rhythm City. "To all the supporters of Rhythm City I would like to encourage you to keep watching. Mamokete has exited but it’s not the end of the show.” She goes on to say: “Thank you so very much for watching for the last nine years and we love you!”
Watch Rhythm City, weekdays at 7PM. Follow the show on Twitter and like the Facebook page.
