As tennis finds itself in the Hollywood spotlight with the success of “Challengers” starring Zendaya, the local industry has put its unique spin on it with “Breekpunt”.
The gripping sports drama, which premiered on Showmax earlier this month, is a captivating and fresh perspective on the high-stakes world of competitive tennis.
It stars Chelsea Thomas, who takes on the lead role of Ashleigh Joshua, a fearless teenager who is determined to have her shot on the international tennis stage.
However, the youngsters must first face challenges, on and off the court.
“I just landed my first lead role and that is a really big deal for me,” Thomas said in an exclusive interview with “Independent Media Lifestyle.”
“I am at a point in my career where I feel very content. I so easily get caught up in worrying about what happens next but for now, I am happy with where I am.”
She added that she was sold on this role very soon after finding out about it.
“I read the audition sides and character briefs and there was no way I wasn’t going to be part of it. Ashleigh immediately grabbed my attention.”
“This young girl with big bushy hair who refuses a straightener and has big dreams to be an international tennis star? I’m sold.”
This coming-of-age story also taps into the relatable struggle of young people being pressured into "sensible" career paths while their true passions are dismissed.
This is as she faces the challenge of parental pressure as well as a fight for independence in her bid to prove that her dream is valid, all while standing firm against those who think tennis isn’t a "real career".
Meanwhile, Thomas, who is also renowned for her roles in "Alles Malan," and "Arendsvlei" is joined by a stellar cast. This includes “Red Ink” and “Scandal!” actress Lorcia Cooper Kumalo, who plays the 24-year-old actress’s mother, and Sherman Faro, who portrays her father.
In addition, Nahum Hughes stars as Thomas’s brother and N’kone Mametja stars as her best friend.
And if you enjoyed Thomas and Cantona James's on-screen chemistry in "Spinners" and "Arendsvlei", you will be delighted to know that the pair reunite in "Breekpunt", with James stepping into the role of a former tennis champion.
The series is produced by multi-award winners Ochre Moving Pictures, who are triple South African Film and Television Awards (Safta) winners for their work on “Justice Served”, “Lioness” and “Spoorloos 4: Die Eiland”.
It is directed by the Saftas-nominated Nicola Hanekom, who contributed to productions such as “Cut-Out Girls” and “Dwaalster”.
Meanwhile, Thomas explained that “Breekpunt” is a comical adventure which delves into themes of love, betrayal, addiction and abandonment.
“The entire series was shot in Johannesburg and that was a first for me,” she said.
“I’ve only been there once before shooting the series. It was a challenge being so far from home and not really knowing anyone else besides the people I work with.”
She added: “I was also, of course, the lead, so with that came a lot of pressure and responsibility but I had fun.”
In regards to the qualities which Thomas shares with her character as well as how they differ, she said: “We are both very big dreamers and we will make things happen no matter what it takes.”
“She is however very rebellious and I am a lot more reserved.”
As only two episodes of the Showmax Original series have been released yet, Thomas promised that viewers are in for a treat as new offerings are dropped every Monday.
On how viewers will receive her character, she said: "I know that Ashleigh is not very likeable and I am also aware that everyone won’t agree with her choices but I do hope that they find good reason to believe that she is simply chasing her dreams without any support from her father.”
On what fans can expect from her in the coming month, Thomas teased: “They will have to keep an eye out!”
If you are a fan of local teenage dramas, give these other South African shows a watch:
“Yizo Yizo” (Netflix)
“Youngins” (Showmax)
“Skeem Saam” (SABC1)
“Is'thunzi” (Mzansi Magic)
“Blood & Water” (Netflix)