Big Brother contestant and actor, Luyanda Mthembu is on the cusp of all things renewed, restored and anticipated. Luyanda Mthembu plays a supported role on season two of Mzansi Magic's much anticipated Ayeye. One thing's for sure, this talented star is all about authenticity and keeping it real. In this QnA he unpacks his role, life on set and why a storyline like Ayeye is a conversation starter.

1. What’s it like being a part of the successful and highly anticipated second season of Ayeye? 🎥

I was on Big Brother which was also hugely anticipated, people were waiting for it to return. I like that I am apart of things that are being renewed, being restored and are being bought back to the people and the normality of things.  I am the common face behind all of that, and I like all of that.

2.The show tackles trending topics like blessers, Only Fans and slay queens. Do you think it will change the narrative of these taboo topics? #️⃣

We can start the conversations by putting up shows like this, but I think that’s an individual journey that we as South African’s have to take in. We have to decide where we place it, is it a negative thing or a positive thing? There’s also two sides to the coins and we have to ask ourselves what it means for everyone involved.

3. Describe Mbuso in 3 words? 😎

Mbuso is a very loyal person, to a detriment. He’s also passionate, he gives his all to whatever he believes in and he’s a very loving person. 

4. Why will SA fall in love with him? 😍

Mbuso is like a puppy, he’s real, he’s tangible and that’s what makes him easy to love. He’s passionate and in the moment with you.

5. What are the two qualities you admire about your character and why? 💪

His strong willed and he stands for what he believes in. You can push him around until he reaches his limit, but once he pushes back - he’s going to make sure he has the final say.

6. What do you enjoy most about being on set? 💜

What I enjoy the most about being on set is intertwining and sharing my journey with other actors. You learn so much from people and so I’m getting to interact with people who share a like-mindedness, whether cast or crew,  everyone involved in creating this beautiful production.

7. How is it different to reality TV 📺

On Ayeye, it’s you pretending to be someone else and when they say 'cut ' you can go back to being yourself. With Big Brother you’re rolling 24/7 and it’s hard to tell who was being authentic and who was pretending. That’s why I came into the show with the name BU (Be You) as a reminder to remain authentic and true to myself and my journey.

8. What were the challenges you encountered playing the role? 👀

Mbuso at times does things he doesn’t want to do, even though it’s his job. I didn’t like that he would betray who he really is or his moral compass just for money. It's hard for me, as I don't believe in selling yourself out. 

9. Is Women’s day and month of significance to you? Why? 💐

Women’s Month or Women’s Day is very important, although I feel it shouldn’t be confined to the month or date. It should be the mindset of African men to love our women. At the crux of everything - there is always a strong, sensitive beautiful African woman at the centre. I love that Ayeye Stripped is dropping in August cause it’s also a time that signifies growth.  

BU makes his debut on Ayeye Stripped tonight, and we love to see him in action already! 10/10 for us. 🔥

Watch Ayeye Stripped every Friday at 20:00 on channel 161 or on the DStv App via any connected device. Join the conversation using #AyeyeStripped.