Veteran actor Carlo Radebe opens up about struggles with unemployment
“I am so uncomfortable and, sorry for upsetting some… I had to [come forward],” says Carlo Radebe.
South African actor, Carlo Radebe. Photo: 702/Karabo Tebele
Bongani Bingwa speaks to veteran actor Carlo Radebe.
Listen below.
Radebe has been at the centre of social media talk after appealing to the public for donations.
In a post on social media, he revealed he was struggling to stay afloat after being unemployed for ‘nearly three years’.
He is known for his roles on Backstage and How to Steal Two Million, among other projects.
He sent out a similar plea in April.
ALSO READ: Veteran 'Backstage' actor Carlo Radebe asks public for financial assistance again
Following the mixed response to his latest appeal, Radebe admits he feels ashamed.
While many people are going through similar situations like Radebe, they can do so privately.
He says he does not blame people for their reactions as many don’t know him or his life’s journey.
“I am so uncomfortable and, sorry for upsetting some… I had to [come forward].”
- Carlo Radebe
“After 19 years, I have found myself alone. When you lose your job, you lose your car, and your apartment, and you turn around and see how many friends you have.”
- Carlo Radebe
“I don’t blame people. It’s survival of the fittest out there. People don’t want that energy.”
- Carlo Radebe
This October will mark 19 years since the actor was retrenched from Backstage.
Coming from one of that time's most-watched shows, Radebe says he thought it would propel his career.
"I never networked myself, and this is before social media… This is word to the wise, you cannot be marooned on an island thinking your lucky stars are going to be sparkling… you have to network.”
- Carlo Radebe
Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the discussion.