In the ever-evolving landscape of television and film, representation and inclusivity have become crucial topics of discussion. One shining example of this movement is Kamogelo Maree, a visually impaired actor who is making waves with her new role as Thoriso in the popular soap opera Scandal!. At just 27 years old, Maree is not only stepping into the limelight but is also on a mission to advocate for differently-abled performers in the entertainment industry, according to SowetanLIVE
Maree’s journey to television began with a serendipitous call to her college, announcing auditions for a female character living with a disability. Embracing the opportunity, she took a leap of faith, auditioning for the role that would ultimately change her life. “So far, it’s been an amazing experience. I used to participate in local stage dramas, but I knew being on TV is where I wanted to be since I was a young girl,” she shared.
“A call came through to the college saying a certain TV soapie is looking for a female person living with disability to come through for auditions for a certain role and I took a leap of faith and auditioned,” said Maree.
In her role as Thoriso, Maree portrays a character who embodies independence, ambition, and resilience. “What I love about my character is that she’s independent, goal-driven, and full of life no matter her circumstances. She always finds a way to sail through hardships and puts on her big girl shoes and makes the most out of life with passion,” Maree explained. This portrayal not only highlights her acting skills but also serves as a powerful message of empowerment for viewers, particularly those with disabilities.
Balancing her new role with her studies, Maree is committed to her education while navigating the demanding world of television. “What I want is for the TV and film industry to take people like me seriously. To take note of how we can contribute despite how different we look; our passion is what matters,” she emphasized.
Maree’s day on set is meticulously structured. She begins her mornings with thorough rehearsals, collaborating closely with her colleagues to prepare and memorize her lines. Utilizing technology to aid her memorization, she employs a screen reader software called Jaws, which reads scripts back to her, allowing her to study independently. “I use my phone with an app that allows Siri to read everything to me – this allows me to access and study the material independently,” she noted.
Initially, navigating the set was a daunting task for Maree, but with the support of her team, she quickly adapted. “Yes, the directors have changed their approach to meet my needs. They provide detailed verbal descriptions of scenes, blocking, and camera angles,” she explained. This collaborative environment fosters an inclusive atmosphere, allowing Maree to perform authentically alongside her able-bodied colleagues.
Maree also took the time to address common misconceptions about visually impaired actors. She highlighted that many people assume they cannot perform complex actions or stunts, overlook their ability to convey emotions, and mistakenly believe they require constant assistance. “By breaking down these misconceptions, we can work towards greater inclusivity and representation in the entertainment industry,” she asserted.
Maree’s journey is reminiscent of other trailblazers in the industry, such as Mxolisi Nodom, who was cast in Scandal! in 2021 despite his profound hearing loss. Nodom’s success in the series and subsequent roles, including a part in iNumber Number: Jozi Gold on Netflix, further underscores the importance of representation for differently-abled actors.
As Kamogelo Maree continues to shine in her role as Thoriso, she not only paves the way for herself but also for future generations of actors with disabilities. Her story is a testament to the power of determination, representation, and the belief that talent knows no bounds. As the entertainment industry evolves, it is crucial to embrace diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that everyone has a place on screen, regardless of their abilities.