Gail Mabalane Wins Best Actress in a TV Drama at SAFTAs 19 for “Unseen” Season 2
OkMzansi | 16.03.2026 23:27
South African actress Gail Mabalane has added another impressive achievement to her career, winning the SAFTA for Best Actress in a TV Drama for her role in Unseen season 2. Known for her powerful performances in Unseen and Pimville, Gail’s latest accolade highlights her talent and dedication to her craft.
Overjoyed by the recognition, Gail took to Instagram to share her gratitude. She wrote, “When the time is right, I the Lord will make it happen. Thank you @saftassa for this incredible honor.” She also celebrated her fellow nominees, tagging Kim Engelbrecht and Amalia Uys, calling them “phenomenal.”
Gail made a special mention of her family, thanking them for their unwavering support. “To my beautiful family @kabelomabalane @zoemabalane @khumo_mabalane, thank you for being my biggest cheerleaders. Thank you for the sacrifices you make so I can do what I love,” she said.
She expressed gratitude to her collaborators at Netflix South Africa and Gambit FMA, the production company behind Unseen. “Playing Zenzi has been an incredible honor. Thank you for being bold enough to tell stories with women as leads. Thank you for telling stories not only about us or around us, but through us.”
Gail didn’t forget to recognise the wider team behind the show. She praised the producers, directors, writers, cast, and crew, saying, “We know what it took to create this body of work collectively – I couldn’t have done it without you!”
She also thanked the fans, acknowledging their role in the show’s success. “What’s the point of any show without viewers! Thank you to everyone who watched, reposted, reviewed, rewatched, commented, celebrated, critiqued, and loved the show so publicly! Re a leboga!”
Ending her post with heartfelt faith, Gail concluded, “Last but not least – #KingJesus!!! You alone deserve the glory!!! Thank you for adding your SUPER to my natural!”
Gail Mabalane’s win is a celebration of talent, hard work, and the power of telling women-led stories. With this achievement, she continues to inspire both her peers and her fans across South Africa.
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