Cynthia Erivo’s Xhosa lessons spark debate in South Africa

By Echos News ZA Editorial Team
Published: Aug 27, 2026

British actress Cynthia Erivo has drawn mixed reactions in South Africa after showcasing her progress in learning isiXhosa clicks for her role as Miriam Makeba in the upcoming biopic The Road Home. While some praised her dedication, others questioned the casting of a non-South African in such a culturally significant role.

Erivo demonstrates her preparation

Erivo appeared at the Library of Congress National Book Festival in Washington, DC on 22 August 2026, where she demonstrated her ability to pronounce isiXhosa click sounds. The actress has been preparing for months, previously sharing a TikTok video in January 2026 singing Makeba’s famous track Pata Pata.

The film, directed by Nigerian filmmaker Bolanle Austen-Peters, explores the life of Makeba and her ex-husband Hugh Masekela, set against the backdrop of apartheid-era South Africa. Erivo has described the role as deeply personal, saying she has carried a “Miriam Makeba-shaped space” in her heart for years.

Her preparation has included language coaching, vocal training, and immersion in South African music traditions. Erivo has emphasised that she wants to honour Makeba’s legacy by approaching the role with respect and authenticity, even as debates continue around the casting decision.

Mixed emotions from South Africans

South Africans reacted strongly to Erivo’s demonstration. Many viewers expressed admiration for her effort, noting that mastering clicks is notoriously difficult for non-native speakers. Others, however, argued that pronunciation alone does not capture the depth of Makeba’s cultural identity.

Prominent figures such as entertainer Somizi and casting director Lawrancia Mqwebu questioned why a South African actress was not chosen for the role. Mqwebu suggested the decision was influenced by “investability” rather than authenticity, sparking debate about representation in global cinema.

Social media platforms reflected the divide, with some users applauding Erivo’s commitment while others insisted that only a South African performer could fully embody Makeba’s legacy. The conversation has reignited broader questions about how African stories are told, who gets to tell them, and whether international productions prioritise marketability over cultural accuracy.

Why Miriam Makeba’s legacy matters

Miriam Makeba, affectionately known as “Mama Africa,” was more than a celebrated singer. She was a storyteller, activist, and cultural icon whose music carried political weight during apartheid. Her international career helped bring South African struggles to global attention, making her legacy deeply intertwined with national identity.

Born in Johannesburg in 1932, Makeba began singing with groups such as the Manhattan Brothers and The Skylarks before gaining international recognition in the late 1950s. Her breakthrough came with the film Come Back, Africa, which exposed apartheid’s brutality. She later moved to the United States, mentored by Harry Belafonte, and quickly rose to fame.

Her hit songs included Pata Pata and The Click Song, which introduced isiXhosa sounds to global audiences. In 1965, she won a Grammy Award with Belafonte for An Evening with Belafonte/Makeba, a record highlighting South African oppression.

Makeba used her platform to testify at the United Nations, condemning apartheid and calling for international action. In 1960, the South African government revoked her passport, banning her from returning home. She spent 31 years in exile, marrying Black Panther leader Stokely Carmichael and later relocating to Guinea.

Her music became more explicitly political, including Soweto Blues, written by Hugh Masekela, which addressed the 1976 uprising. She performed at independence celebrations across Africa, aligning herself with liberation movements.

Makeba returned to South Africa in 1990 after Nelson Mandela’s release, continuing to perform worldwide until her death in 2008. Her activism earned her global recognition, including the Dag Hammarskjöld Peace Prize.

For many South Africans, Makeba’s life represents resilience and cultural pride. Any portrayal of her must balance artistic interpretation with respect for heritage. Erivo has acknowledged the challenge, promising to honour Makeba’s memory through hard work and dedication. Whether her performance will win over sceptics remains to be seen, but the conversation underscores the enduring significance of Makeba’s voice in South Africa and beyond.

Related Coverage By Echos News ZA on Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo Faces Backlash Over Miriam Makeba TikTok Performance.

British actress and singer Cynthia Erivo, celebrated for her Broadway and Hollywood roles, has found herself at the center of a cultural storm. A TikTok video resurfaced showing her singing Miriam Makeba’s iconic protest song “Pata Pata”, sparking heated debate across South Africa and beyond. While Erivo is set to portray Makeba in an upcoming biopic, many South Africans questioned whether a non-local actress could authentically embody the legendary “Mama Africa.”

(Read more...)

Source: Briefly | By: Jessica Gcaba

© 2026 Echos News ZA. All rights reserved.

Disclaimer:

This article is published by Echos News ZA for informational and editorial purposes. All content is based on verified sources and independent editorial judgment. Echos News ZA does not endorse or oppose any political party, public figure, or organization. Readers are encouraged to consult original reports and official releases for complete context.

Copyright for images, videos, and external materials belongs to their original creators. Echos News ZA does not host, store, or upload third‑party content, and any use of such materials is under fair use, commentary, or with proper attribution where applicable.

Our coverage complies with Google AdSense policies on factual reporting, neutrality, and non‑sensational content.

⬅ Return to Home