Lydia Mokgokoloshi, popularly known as Koko Mantsha, is a famous South African actress who rose to fame for her stellar performance as Koko Mantsha in the hit SABC 1 soap opera, Skeem Saam.
Her acting career spanned decades, and the roles she played in many TV series deeply captivated the audience.
Her journey in the entertainment industry began in the 1980s with the role of Mma Nkwesheng in the TV series Bophelo ke Semphekgo, where she played the role of a strict and overbearing mother-in-law.
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- – Full name: Lydia Mokgokoloshi
- – Nickname: Koko Mantsha
- – Date of Birth: September 27, 1939
- – Age: 85
- – Gender: Female
- – Birthplace: Botlokwa, Limpopo Province, South Africa
- – Nationality: South African
- – Occupation: Actor, educator
- – Height: Not applicable
- – Parents: None
- – Brothers and sisters: None
- – Spouse: None
- – Children: 1 (name unknown)
- – Marital Status: Widowed
- – Religion: None
- – Ethnicity: Northern Sotho
- – Net worth: $200,000
Early life and education
Lydia Mokokolohi, 85, was born on September 27, 1939 in Botlokwa village in Limpopo Province, South Africa. She grew up in an ordinary family and attended the Mansata tribal school in her early years, and Botlokwa primary school in grades 5 and 6. Lydia completed her high school education at Mokomene School.
Her passion for teaching led her to enroll in a teacher training programme in Mokopane, which led to a teaching career that lasted more than two decades, including a significant period in Soweto from 1974 until her retirement in 1997.
Throughout her early years, her Northern Sotho heritage and the cultural environment in which she grew up deeply influenced her personal and professional life.
Personal life
Lydia Mokgokoloshi has experienced the joys and sorrows of family life. She is married to a supportive husband, whose identity is kept secret, and they have one child.
Tragically, her son died in 2003, devastating her. Lydia is now a widow living with her grandchildren, finding solace and purpose in their company.
Profession
Lydia Mokolohi’s acting career began in the 1980s when she played the harsh and unfeeling mother-in-law, Mma Nkwesheng, in Bophelo ke Semphekgo. The role established her as a formidable talent on South African television.
She went on to star in several television series, including Ngwanaka Okae and Muvhango. However, it was her role as Koko Mantsha in Skeem Saam in 2011 that really cemented her status as a household name.
Her portrayal of the wise and loving grandmother resonated with audiences, making her one of the show’s most popular characters. In 2022, she joined the cast of Giani: Bloodlands, further demonstrating her versatility and enduring appeal as an actor.
Awards
- 2017: Lifetime Achievement Award at the South African Film and Television Awards
net worth
Lydia Mokokolohi’s net worth is estimated to be around $200,000. She has accumulated her wealth through her extensive television career, which comes from her long-running roles in popular TV series and soap operas.
dispute
Lydia Mokgokoloshi has always been surrounded by controversy. In July 2021, rumors of her death spread on social media, causing widespread concern among her fans and the entertainment industry. The reports were quickly debunked by the producers of Skeem Saam and her close colleagues, who confirmed that she is still alive and well.
This incident highlighted the impact of false information and the distress it can cause. Additionally, her decision to temporarily step away from acting in 2020 sparked rumors and speculation about her health and future. Despite these challenges, Lydia has remained dignified and calm, focusing on her work and personal life.
Social Media
- – Instagram: No
- – Twitter: No
Filmography
- – Porfiro Kay Semperco
- – Ngwanaka O kae
- – Muvhango
- – Skeem Saam
- – Giani: Bloody Land
