John Kani on joining the Oscars voting body: ‘It is an honour and a privilege’

Africa Melane (in for John Maytham on CapeTalk) speaks with SA playwright and actor John Kani.

Listen below:

Celebrated actor John Kani is adding another incredible achievement to his already impressive resume.

Born in Gqeberha, he is best known for his roles as T’Chaka in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Rafiki in The Lion King.

Now, he has officially been invited to join the join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences voting body.

This exclusive group is responsible for choosing Oscar winners, and Kani is one of three South African voices to enter this Hollywood inner circle, following Charlize Theron and Anant Singh.

He is one of six African creatives that has been invited by the Academy to join the body in its latest intake.

Kani says it is an honour and a privilege to be nominated and accepted into this role, which he says does such important work in the world of entertainment.

RELATED: LISTEN: Dr John Kani and Kagiso Lediga tell the story of Rafiki in ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’

He adds that this will give him an opportunity to give recognition to the media coming out of the African continent.

“Being in the room brings in Africa.”

- John Kani, South African playwright and actor

“It is about time our presence is felt in the room.”

- John Kani, South African playwright and actor

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