Lydia Mokgokoloshi, the legendary actress beloved for her role as Koko Mantsha on the popular South African TV show *Skeem Saam*, recently delighted fans with her lively dance moves during a birthday celebration. The 83-year-old actress was a guest at Morgan Mohlala’s 50th birthday party, where she showcased her energetic spirit by dancing alongside fellow *Skeem Saam* co-star Molobane Maja and musician Papa Penny. The trio grooved to the beat of singer Pleasure’s hit song “Ke Lorile,” and the moment was captured in a heartwarming video that quickly went viral. The clip, shared on TikTok, has garnered over five million views, with fans praising Mokgokoloshi’s vitality and infectious joy.
Fans of the long-running soap opera were particularly excited to see Mokgokoloshi in action, as it marked her first public appearance in some time. Her last appearance on *Skeem Saam* was in 2020, where she had played the role of Koko Mantsha since the show’s inception in 2011. After almost a decade on the show, Mokgokoloshi decided to take a well-deserved break, stepping away from the demanding schedule of television work. However, her brief return to the public eye at the birthday celebration has reminded everyone of her enduring presence and influence in the South African entertainment industry.
Lydia Mokgokoloshi’s portrayal of Koko Mantsha has endeared her to generations of viewers, with many considering her a beloved grandmother figure. But her illustrious career spans more than just *Skeem Saam*. The veteran actress, who has been in the entertainment industry for over four decades, has left an indelible mark with her versatile performances. One of her most iconic roles was in the television series *Bophelo ke Semphekgo*, a Sepedi drama where she played Hunadi, also known as Mmago Nkwesheng. Her powerful performances in such roles solidified her reputation as one of South Africa’s finest talents.
In a candid interview, Mokgokoloshi once revealed that she was initially apprehensive about joining *Skeem Saam*. Despite her extensive experience, she was nervous about stepping into the role. But her passion for acting has always been undeniable. “I didn’t even inform my parents about my decision to audition for the role because, back then, acting wasn’t seen as a valued career path, especially in our community,” she recalled. Yet, her love for the craft pushed her forward, and she quickly became
Her career trajectory serves as an inspiration for many aspiring actors, demonstrating the importance of dedication, resilience, and a deep love for storytelling. Mokgokoloshi has often shared that her journey into acting was uncertain at first, but over the years, she grew more confident in her abilities. As a teacher, she used to write plays for her students and youth at church, which helped her hone her storytelling skills.
### Reflecting on Her Legacy
Throughout her long and successful career, Lydia Mokgokoloshi has managed to maintain a healthy lifestyle, something she attributes to her longevity both on-screen and off. Her acting debut dates back to the early 1980s, with one of her first notable roles being in the Sepedi drama series *Ngwanaka O Kae*, where she portrayed Mmago Rateka. Since then, she has become an iconic figure in South African television, known for her passion and dedication to the craft.
Mokgokoloshi often reflects on how the entertainment industry has changed since her early days. She fondly recalls her time working alongside legendary actors such as Sello Maake KaNcube and the late Patrick Shai, emphasizing that, in her era, acting was driven by passion rather than monetary gain. Today, she observes a shift, with many young actors seemingly more focused on fame and fortune.
Even as she takes a step back from acting, Lydia Mokgokoloshi remains a beloved figure in South African entertainment. Her recent appearance at the birthday celebration, where she danced with joy and energy, serves as a reminder of her vitality and her lasting impact on her fans. As the video continues to circulate on social media, Mokgokoloshi’s legacy continues to inspire, proving that age is no barrier to enjoying life and making lasting memories.